CHRISTIAN
THE
AND
CC,
'OMMUNICATION
Words are of no value unless
they are accompanied
with appropriate deeds.
E.GW.
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
ADULT SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OVERFLOW OFFERING
MARCH 31, 1973, NORTHERN EUROPE-WEST AFRICA DIVISION
The Thirteenth Sabbath Offering is a living symbol of the globe-encircling
unity of the advent movement. This quarter the overflow offering is going
to the Northern Europe-West Africa Division—a considerable section of
the world field, reaching from Greenland's icy mountains and Ireland's
troubled homes and streets to Poland's golden autumns and West Africa's
teeming millions.
Education is at a premium in West Africa. Its youth are on the march;
tens of thousands are being trained in Adventist schools. At the top of
the church's educational ladder is found the Adventist College of West
Africa. Here eager young people are being channeled into lines of denomina-
tional service. We are endeavoring to build up a real senior college. The
opportunities are challenging. Your support is needed to make the college
a key Adventist center of learning and spiritual vivification. Your offering
will help construct a badly needed assembly hall.
Stanborough School is the secondary school serving Britain. Plans have
been made calling for a great forward leap. Your giving will help provide
additional classrooms and dormitory facilities.
March 31 is a red-letter date in the Adventist Church calendar. God loves
a cheerful giver. "The very best manner . . . to give expression to our
love for our Redeemer is to make offerings to bring souls to the knowledge
of the
truth."—Testimonies,
Vol. 3, p. 413.
Our liberality will help to produce spiritual and educational reality.
B. B. Beach, Sabbath School Secretary,
Northern Europe-West Africa Division
Lessons for the Second Quarter of 1973
Sabbath School members who have not received a copy of
the
Adult Lessons
for the second quarter of 1973 will be helped
by the following outline in studying the first two lessons. The
title of the series is "A Holy Life in Hard Times"—a study of
First Peter.
The title of the first lesson is "About the Author." The memory
verse is John 6:68, 69. The outline is as follows: (1) The Man.
Mark 1:16; Luke 5:10. (2) The Disciple, I. Luke 5:8-11. (3) The
Disciple, II.
The Desire of Ages,
page 816. (4) The Missionary.
Acts 2:40, 41. (5) The Prisoner. Acts 12. (6) The Writer.
The title of the second lesson is "Faith and Trouble." The
memory verse is 1 Peter 1:6, 7. The outline is as follows:
(1) Living Hope. 1 Peter 1:3. (2) God's Keeping Power. 1 Peter
1:4, 5. (3) The Test of Faith. 1 Peter 1:6, 7. (4) Love and Faith.
1 Peter 1:8, 9. (5) The Basis of Faith. 1 Peter 1:10. (6) Privileged
Believers. 1 Peter 1:12.
Litho in U.S.A.
The Christian and Communication
FIRST QUARTER, 1973
These lessons are about the way Christians communicate with each
other, with the world, and with God. They have to do with the two-way
channels of communication—how they affect Christians as they
receive communications from others, and how their own communica-
tions affect other people.
Effective communication is the most difficult of all human arts.
Research indicates that in some countries people spend about 75
percent of their time in one or more acts of communication. People
all over the world, both civilized and primitive, spend much time either
in communicating actively or in receiving communication by listening.
God has designed effective ways of restoring communication
between Himself and mankind since the direct link was severed in
Eden. He speaks to the human family through prayer, through the
Bible, through nature, by song, and in many other ways. "Each is
to have an individual experience in being taught by the Great Teacher,
and individual communion with God
."—Testimonies to Ministers,
page 486.
The Scripture says that "they that feared the Lord spake often one
to another." Mal. 3:16. A Christian who fails to join in communication
with fellow Christians soon loses strength in his spiritual life. We
find Christian communication in books and magazines, through radio
and television, by telephone and letter, as well as in the church, in
the school, and in family worship.
A world awaits the Christian who believes the divine command
to communicate the gospel. To him are given ways both simple and
complex. A simple, effective witness of Christian living may be all
that is possible in a particular circumstance; or, in other circum-
stances, modern communications technology may be effectively
employed to answer a global challenge.
At all times and by all means we must be ready to communicate
the good word Heaven has given us through Jesus Christ.
The Blessing of Daily Study
"Every day some portion of time should be appro-
priated to the study of the lessons, not merely in learn-
ing to mechanically repeat the words, while the mind
does not comprehend the meaning; but to go to the
very foundation, and become familiar with what is
brought out in the lesson."—Counsels
on Sabbath
School Work,
page 53.
My Pledge
As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge
of the Scriptures, I pledge myself to the careful and
prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath School
lesson each day of the week.
(signed)
The regular Sabbath School senior division lessons and regular
Sabbath School World Mission Report are available free each month
in Braille and 16% rpm records to blind and physically handicapped
persons who cannot read normal inkprint. This includes individuals
who because of arthritis, multiple sclerosis, paralysis, accidents,
old age, and so forth, cannot hold or focus on normal inkprint
publications. Contact the Christian Record Braille Foundation, Box
6097, Lincoln, Nebraska 68506.
Lesson Titles for the Quarter
1.
Channels.of Communication
2.
Avenues to the Soul
3.
The Divine Media
4.
The Human Media
5.
God's Good Word
6.
Control Central
7.
Prayer—A Two-way Channel
8.
The Christian's Use of Words
9.
Barriers to Effective Communication
10.
The Family in Dialogue
11.
The Electric Society
12.
Worldwide Witness
13.
Living Communication
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly (regular edition), No. 311, January-March, 1973. 35 cents a single copy, $1.40
a year (four issues); no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A., by Pacific
Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain View, California 94040. Second-
class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. Form 3579 requested. When a change of address
is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses.
Copyright, 1972, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
Illustrations by Elf red Lee
Channels of Communication
LESSON 1
❑
Monday
January 1
Part 2
OUR ACTS—
GOD-CENTERED
1 Cor. 10:31-33
How is it possible to glorify God in eating, drinking, and action?
Note the verses preceding this passage.
"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do
all to the glory of God. Give none offence, neither to the Jews,
nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: even as I please
all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit
of many, that they may be saved."
"The Christian's first motive in living in harmony with the laws
of God should be to promote the honor of God. This motive arises
from his love for God and his desire to please his Maker (see
John 14:15; 1 John 5:3). All the energies of the soul should be
used to advance the interests of God's kingdom, and so to honor
God. . . .
"Christians are not at liberty to follow the promptings of the
natural, unconverted heart and the impulses of the unregenerate
body. They are under obligation to bring every thought, word,
and deed into harmony with God's revealed will."—SDA
Bible
Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 10:31.
What kind of actions by the people of Judah did God indicate
would communicate light and righteousness to the world? Isa.
58:6-8. Does this passage have significance today?
Today, because of the widespread use of mass media, our acts
as individuals and as a church can very rapidly be subjected to
the scrutiny of the world. We live as a part of a global community.
Our presence, or absence, in times of need tells the world of
our concern or lack of it.
What is Christ's assessment of the deeds of His professed
followers? Matt. 25:31-46.
THINK IT THROUGH
How would Jesus assess my actions of the past year in relation
to the message they have communicated to others? How may
this record be improved?
"The universe of heaven will look upon characters [of converted
Christians] that have been transformed. The frivolous, common
level will be forsaken, and their feet will be placed upon the first
round of the ladder, which is Christ Jesus. They will mount step
by step, one round after another, heavenward. Christ will be
revealed in their spirit, in their words, in their actions."—
Funda-
mentals of Christian Education,
page 459.
"Everyone will be held responsible for the grace given him
through Christ. Life is too solemn to be absorbed in temporal
or earthly matters. The Lord desires that we shall communicate
to others that which the eternal and unseen communicates to
us."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 373.
FURTHER STUDY
The Ministry of Healing,
pages 201-208.
9
Channels of Communication
LESSON 1
❑
Wednesday
January 3
Part 4
"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know
OUR
not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself
PRAYERS— maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be
AIDED BY THE uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the
SPIRIT mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints
Rom. 8:26, 27 according to the will of God."
"Christ, our Mediator, and the Holy Spirit are constantly inter-
ceding in man's behalf, but the Spirit pleads not for us as does
Christ who presents His blood, shed from the foundation of the
world; the Spirit works upon our hearts, drawing out prayers and
penitence, praise and thanksgiving. The gratitude which flows
from our lips is the result of the Spirit striking the cords of the
soul in holy memories, awakening the music of the heart."—Ellen
G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, pp. 1077,
1078.
"The Bible shows us God in His high and holy place. . . . By
His Spirit He is everywhere present. Through the agency of His
Spirit and His angels He ministers to the children of men. "—
The
Ministry of Healing,
page 417.
Our whole I ives are affected by prayer. It moves us in the direction
of God. It opens our hearts to heaven's communications. Through
it we understand God's will for us.
What gift comes through prayer? Luke 11:13.
We are told to knock and it shall be opened, to seek and so
find. The primary gift available through prayer is the gift of the
Holy Spirit, the personal representative of Jesus Christ. If we are
to be channels for the flow of God's love to others, the Spirit
must enter our lives daily in response to our earnest prayer request.
What is Christ seeking to do? Rev. 3:20. How does this form
a counterpart to Luke 11:9-13?
THINK IT THROUGH
How will prayer help us to communicate God's will to others?
"The dispensation in which we are now living is to be, to those
that ask, the dispensation of the Holy Spirit. Ask for His blessing.
It is time we were more intense in our devotion. To us is committed
the arduous, but happy, glorious work of revealing Christ to those
who are in darkness. We are called to proclaim the special truths
for this time. For all this the outpouring of the Spirit is essential.
We should pray for it. The Lord expects us to ask Him. We have
not been wholehearted in this work... .
"Pray without ceasing, and watch by working in accordance
with your prayers. As you pray, believe, trust in God. It is the
time of the latter rain, when the Lord will give largely of His Spirit.
Be fervent in prayer, and watch in the
Spirit."—Testimonies to
Ministers,
pages 511, 512.
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages 147-149;
Testimonies to Ministers,
page 512.
11
establishment of sanitariums for the care
of the sick and suffering, is just as neces-
sary in the "regions beyond" as in
America. Let all do their best, making their
boast in the Lord, and blessing others by
their good works.
The Result of Unselfish Service
Christ co-operates with those who
engage in medical missionary work. Men
and women who unselfishly do what they
can to establish sanitariums and treat-
ment rooms in many lands will be richly
rewarded. Those who visit these institu-
tions will be benefited physically, men-
tally, and spiritually. The weary will be
refreshed, the sick will be restored to
health, and the sin-burdened will be
relieved. In far-off countries thanksgiving
will be heard from the lips of those whose
hearts have been turned from sin to righ-
teousness. By their songs of grateful
praise a testimony will be borne that will
win other souls to the truth.
A Great Work
The conversion of souls to God is the
greatest work, the highest work, in which
human beings can take part. In this work,
God's forbearance, his unbounded love,
his holiness, his power, are revealed.
Every true conversion glorifies him, and
causes the angels to break forth into sing-
ing. Mercy and Truth have met together;
Righteousness and Peace have kissed
each other.
Upon every truly converted soul—every
one who believes in Christ as the world's
Redeemer—God has laid the obligation of
co-operating with him who gave his life
for a perishing world. To every one who
is in ease in Zion, he says, Arise, and put
your shoulder to the wheel. Bear spiritual
burdens. Clear the atmosphere of your
soul, in order that the Sun of Righteous-
ness may shine forth through you to the
people of other tongues, revealing to them
a living, testing truth. Let your light so
shine that those who are perishing in their
sins may learn of God's goodness, mercy,
and love.
The light of the truth for this time is now
shining upon the cabinets of kings. The
attention of statesmen is being called to
the Bible,—the statute-book of the na-
tions,—and they are comparing their
national laws with its statutes. As rep-
resentatives of Christ, we have no time
to lose. Our efforts are not to be confined
to a few placeswhere the light has become
so abundant that it is not appreciated.
With unmistakable clearness the light of
truth is to be revealed to many people and
nations and tongue.p. The publications
containing present truth are to be trans-
lated into many ftnguages.
Christ's Witnesses
We are a spectacle to worlds unfallen,
to angels, and to men. "Ye are my wit-
nesses," Christ says. We should know
individually and be able to tell others that
every promise of God is true. It is by bear-
ing a straightforward testimony in word
and work, that we are counted as true,
faithful witnesses for Christ.
My brethren and sisters, God now calls
upon you to consecrate yourselves to him
in willing obedience. He calls upon you
to proclaim his law with fearlessness, with
the intelligence with which those whose
hearts are sanctified by the truth ever
reveal this truth to others. The third
angel's message is now to be proclaimed
in every land. It is to be borne to English-
speaking people, and to those of every
other language. Let believers, as active
recipients of God's blessing, diffuse the
light of his truth to every nation, kindred,
tongue, and people, in obedience to the
commission, "Go ye therefore, and teach
all nations, baptizing them in the name
of the Father, and of the Son, and of the
Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all
things whatsoever I have commanded
you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even
unto the end of the world." We are not
half awake to the importance of this com-
mission. May God place the burden of the
proclamation of the message upon his
people now, just now, is my prayer.—
Review and Herald,
July 7, 1903.
15
Avenues to the Soul
LESSON 2
❑
Sunday
January 7
Part 1
"Give ear, 0 my people, to my law: incline your ears to the
THE EARS words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable: I will
Ps. 78:1-3, 5 utter dark sayings of old: which we have heard and known, and
our fathers have told us."
"For he [God] established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed
a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should
make them known to their children."
God's plea is that we listen. What a difference it would make
if God's people listened to His voice! The long list of God's wonder-
ful deeds in this psalm encourage faith and confidence.
Every day we listen to many voices. Radio, television, hi-fi, and
telephone blare their communications at us. Not only do we have
the responsibility of censoring what we hear, but we must also
make way for the words God wishes to speak to us through His
Word, through prayer, and through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
How did Jesus invite His followers to make intelligent use
of their ears? Matt. 11:15; 13:9. See Rev. 3:22.
Many of the amusements popular in the world today, even with
those who claim to be Christians, tend to the same end as did
those of the heathen. There are indeed few among them that
Satan does not turn to account in destroying souls. Through the
drama he has worked for ages to excite passion and glorify vice.
The opera, with its fascinating display and bewildering music,
the masquerade, the dance, the card table, Satan employs to break
down the barriers of principle•and open the door to sensual
indulgence."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 459, 460.
THINK IT THROUGH
What voice should we seek to discern in the babble of impres-
sions we cannot escape? Isa. 30:21; John 14:26.
"Yet we have a work to do to resist temptation. Those who
would not fall a prey to Satan's devices must guard well the
avenues of the soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, or hearing
that which will suggest impure thoughts. The mind should not
be left to wander at random upon every subject that the adversary
of souls may suggest. 'Gird up the loins of your mind,' says the
apostle Peter, 'be sober, ... not fashioning yourselves according
to the former lusts in your ignorance: but as He which hath called
you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of living.'
"—Messages
to Young People,
page 285.
"The mind does not come down at once from purity and holiness
to depravity, corruption, and crime. It takes time to degrade those
formed in the image of God to the brutal or the satanic. By behold-
ing, we become changed. By the indulgence of impure thoughts,
man can so educate his mind that sin which he once loathed
will become pleasant to
him."—Messages to Young People,
page
282.
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 453-461.
17
Avenues to the Soul
LESSON 2
❑
Monday
January 8
Part 2
THE EYES
Matt. 5:29
THINK IT THROUGH
What do you think Jesus meant by plucking out the eye?
"And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from
thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should
perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell."
This is an alarming warning of the danger of being polluted
spiritually by our senses. The figure of speech used here graphi-
cally represents how great is the evil of opening the mind to lustful
impressions through the eyes. But lust is only one example of
the danger which includes a mental acceptance of every type
of sin that reaches the mind through the eye. These impressions
come not only from direct sight of persons, the source Jesus
was speaking of in Matt. 5:29, but also from print, cinema, and
television.
The eye receives countless communications in one day. The
mind is called upon to receive and classify these impressions.
What criteria should the Christian apply to what he permits
to enter his mind? Phil. 4:8. Compare Ps. 66:18; 101:3.
The eye must be controlled by faith—a faith that, voluntarily
received, has made the mind captive to Jesus Christ. Thus faith
in Jesus, working through the mind, may control all human senses.
Paul taught that anything which does not proceed out of faith
is sin. Rom. 14:23. To avoid sinning with the eyes, then, is a matter
of faith censoring sight. The Christian will choose sight objects
that are in harmony with the principles exhibited by the life of
Jesus.
Do the circumstances of viewing alter the rightness of what
is viewed? Think about this in relation to watching television,
feature films, drama.
"You love to read storybooks, but do not find the word of God
interesting. You should restrict your reading to the word of God
and to books that are of a spiritual and useful character. In so
doing you will close a door against temptation, and you will be
blessed."—Testimonies, Vol. 3, pp. 81, 82.
"There is no influence in our land more powerful to poison
the imagination, to destroy religious impressions, and to blunt
the relish for the tranquil pleasures and sober realities of life than
theatrical amusements. The love for these scenes increases with
every indulgence, as the desire for intoxicating drink strengthens
with its use. The only safe course is to shun the theater, the circus,
and every other questionable place of amusement.
"There are modes of recreation which are highly beneficial to
both mind and body. An enlightened, discriminating mind will
find abundant means for entertainment and diversion, from
sources not only innocent, but instructive."—Testimonies, Vol.
4, p. 653.
FURTHER STUDY
Messages to Young People,
pages 271- 278.
18
Avenues to the Soul
LESSON 2
❑
Wednesday
January 10
Part 4
"For who is there of all flesh, that hath heard the voice of
APPEAL TO the living God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as we have,
THE HEART and lived? Go thou near, and hear all that the Lord our God
Deut. 5:26-29 shall say: and speak thou unto us all that the Lord our God
shall speak unto thee; and we will hear it, and do it. And the
Lord heard the voice of your words, when ye spake unto me;
and the Lord said unto me, I have heard the voice of the words
of this people, which they have spoken unto thee: they have
well said all that they have spoken. 0 that there were such
an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my
commandments always, that it might be well with them, and
with their children for ever!"
They sensed the earth shaking, they saw the lightning flash,
they heard the thunder rumble. They even had a privilege long
denied men—the children of Israel heard God speak the Ten Com-
mandments.
This experience completely overawed them. They could imagine
no circumstance in which they would forget such power. They
were terrified then. God commended them for their response.
But He saw deeper. He knew that the emotional experience of
that day at Sinai had not changed their hearts.
What was the result of Christ's testimony to the disciples on
the road to Emmaus? Luke 24:32.
THINK IT THROUGH
Note that in the experience of the disciples there was a blending
of emotion with the intellectual act of learning the truth.
"After His resurrection Jesus appeared to His disciples on the
way to Emmaus, and, 'beginning at Moses and all the prophets,
He expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concern-
ing Himself.' Luke 24:27. The hearts of the disciples were stirred.
Faith was kindled. They were 'begotten again into a lively hope'
even before Jesus revealed Himself to them."—The
Great
Controversy,
page 349.
We are warned that in the last days Satan will use displays
of power to deceive. How may we safeguard our faith against
wonders and signs of satanic origin?
FURTHER STUDY
20
"Their [the Israelites'] profound awe at the manifestation of
divine power and glory was the very attitude of mind and heart
God desired to produce in them. It is only when a man becomes
humble in God's sight, when he realizes his utter sinfulness and
helplessness in contrast to God's righteousness and omnipotence,
that God can work in him and with him."—SDA
Bible Commentary,
on Deut. 5:28.
The Desire of Ages,
pages 799-801.
Avenues to the Soul
LESSON 2
❑
Friday
January 12
Part 6
"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray
THE WHOLE God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless
MAN
unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that
1 Thess. 5:23,
calleth you, who also will do it."
24
Every facet of man's life may be sanctified. Under no circum-
stances should we consider salvation as something that applies
to our spiritual natures and neglects our bodies, or applies to
our bodies but omits our minds. The whole man—physical, intel-
lectual, emotional, moral, and social—can come under the control
of God.
"The truth must sanctify the whole man—his mind, his thoughts,
his heart, his strength. His vital powers will not be consumed
upon his own lustful practices. These must be overcome, or they
will overcome him....
"Sanctification—how many understand its full meaning? The
mind is befogged by sensual malaria. The thoughts need purifying.
What might not men and women have been had they realized
that the treatment of the body has everything to do with the vigor
and purity of mind and heart.
"The true Christian obtains an experience which brings holiness.
He is without a spot of guilt upon the conscience, or a taint of
corruption upon the soul. The spirituality of the law of God, with
its limiting principles, is brought into his life. The light of truth
irradiates his understanding. A glow of perfect love for the
Redeemer clears away the miasma which has interposed between
his soul and God. The will of God has become his will, pure,
elevated, refined, and sanctified. His countenance reveals the light
of heaven. His body is a fit temple for the Holy Spirit. Holiness
adorns his character. God can commune with him; for soul and
body are in harmony with God."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA
Bible Commentary,
Vol. 7, p. 909.
What are the means and the aim of sanctification? 1 Peter
1:2.
THINK IT THROUGH
Am I part Christian or whole Christian? Is it really possible
to hold back a part of self from Christ and still be one of His
redeemed?
"By His perfect obedience He has made it possible for every
human being to obey God's commandments. When we submit
ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will
is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the
thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life....
"The truth is to be planted in the heart. It is to control the
mind and regulate the affections. The whole character must be
stamped with the divine utterances. Every jot and tittle of the
word of God is to be brought into the daily practice."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
pages 312-314.
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pages 469-473.
22
THE
DIVINE
MEDIA
LESSON 3
January 14-20
"God, who at sundry times and in
divers manners spake in time past unto
the fathers by the prophets, hath in these
last days spoken unto us by his Son."
Heb. 1:1, 2.
Sin interposes an almost impenetrable
barrier to effective communication
between God and man. Just as powerful
radio transmitters may be jammed by
unfriendly signals, so sin jams the divine
messages. Yet God has chosen to speak
to certain men and relay His communica-
tions to us through them.
We are continually surprised, through-
out the Bible, by the determination and
patience of God in seeking to com-
municate His message of love. Many of
us are familiar with the methods God used
to communicate His messages to Ellen G.
White.
But this is only part of the picture of
divine communication. God communi-
cates with us directly through the Bible,
nature, and the Holy Spirit. God will speak
to us through them if we will but let Him.
Medium:
"A person through whom a
purpose is accomplished: go-between,
agent, intermediary."—Webster's
Third
New International Dictionary.
Communication:
"Interchange of
thoughts or opinions: a process by which
meanings are exchanged between
individuals through a, common system of
symbols."—Webster's Third New Interna-
tional Dictionary.
23
The Divine Media
LESSON 3
❑
Sunday
January 14
Part 1
"Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according
A MESSAGE TO to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: that
BE CONVEYED in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather
Eph. 1:9, 10 together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven,
and which are on earth; even In him."
We may well wonder why God went to such pains to redeem
us. What is there in us that is to be desired? Why did He not
destroy sinners and start over again? Yet we read again and again
of His determination to destroy sin, of His ineffable love, of His
desire to restore the original communication between Himself and
His created subjects.
To receive the message of this love; to know that God is seeking
us through Jesus Christ; this is the greatest knowledge within
our comprehension.
"Oh, the mystery of redemption! the love of God for a world
that did not love Him! Who can know the depths of that love
which 'passeth knowledge'? Through endless ages immortal
minds, seeking to comprehend the mystery of that incomprehensi-
ble love, will wonder and
adore."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages
63, 64.
What are the steps in the communication of the plan of salva-
tion? 2 Cor. 5:19.
How has the word of reconciliation been channeled to you?
What methods did God use in your case?
How does God speak of the results of His saving word? Isa.
55: 10, 11.
God has chosen to let us know about Himself. More than this,
our knowledge of Him is with a purpose in mind. It can lead to
our reconciliation and salvation. The goal of God's communication
with mankind is eternal life for the redeemed.
THINK IT THROUGH
How much may we understand of the mystery of His will?
"God cannot be understood by men. His ways and works are
past finding out. In regard to the revelations that He has made
of Himself in His Word, we may talk, but other than this, let us
say of Him, Thou art God, and Thy ways are past finding out.
"There is a knowledge of God and of Christ which all who are
saved must have. 'This is life eternal,' Christ said, 'that they might
know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast
sent.'
"The question for us to study is, What is truth—the truth for
this time, which is to be cherished, loved, honored, and obeyed?"
—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p.
1079.
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 63-70.
24
The Divine Media
LESSON 3
❑
Tuesday
January 16
Part 3
"And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself
GOD CHOOSES by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of recon-
HIS
ciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world
MESSENGERS unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath
2 Cor. 5:18-20 committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are
ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by
us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God."
The messages God gives differ in scope. Some are timeless.
These make up the Scriptures. To them, men of all eras may refer
for objective standards and divine guidance.
The divine origin of any messages will be recognized by their
agreement with the Scripture testimony. God illuminates the Scrip-
tures for every believer, and that believer thus has a relationship
to God that is unique. A saved sinner is the gospel story in minia-
ture.
It is from our personal communication of the gospel message
to another individual that the real effectiveness of our ambassador-
ship derives. Upon those who have received the message of saving
love devolves the responsibility of communicating the word of
reconciliation to others.
By what unique experience were the Scriptures given to the
world? 2 Peter 1:19-21.
Which of the gifts that God gives to His church are gifts of
communication? 1 Cor. 12:7-11.
Responsibilities vary in degree and purpose according to God's
choosing, opportunity, and the talent of the individual. No faithful
servant of God will seek to escape his assignment as ambassador.
THINK IT THROUGH
What will a sense of the uniqueness of our knowledge of Christ
'
do for our words and life?
"Every chapter and every verse of the Bible is a communication
from God to men. We should bind its precepts as signs upon
our hands and as frontlets between our eyes. If studied and obeyed,
it would lead God's people, as the Israelites were led, by the pillar
of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night."
—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 504.
"All men do not receive the same gifts, but to every servant
of the Master some gift of the Spirit is promised... .
"The gifts are already ours in Christ, but their actual possession
depends upon our reception of the Spirit of
God."—Christ's Object
Lessons,
page 327.
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages 325-333.
26
THE HUMAN MEDIA
LESSON 4
January 21-27
"Surely the Lord God will do nothing,
but he revealeth his secret unto his ser-
vants the prophets. The lion hath roared,
who will not fear? the Lord God hath
spoken, who can but prophesy?" Amos
3:7, 8.
At first glance it seems presumptuous
to think of God actually choosing to speak
.through men. Yet in reality this is the only
valid choice for a substantial, long-lasting
revelation of Himself. Only through men
could God provide the human view, the
human language, and the example of
human faith in His message.
God has a message of the utmost impor-
tance for us. This world is not right. We
are not living in the natural condition for
which man was created. It can and will
be made better. The purposes and plans
30
of God have been revealed to us, and we
have been given the opportunity to make
our personal decisions. This is the func-
tion the prophet performs—conveying
what God wants man to consider for his
own benefit and salvation.
In this lesson we will look at men in their
awesome role of divine mouthpieces. How
did these men feel about the responsibil-
ity? In what ways did God speak through
them? Why should they be believed?
KEY THOUGHT
The Prophets' Kinship With Their Fellow
Humans. We
are not looking at a race of
mystics or ascetics. These are men, con-
secrated and devout, but men nonethe-
less, speaking for God sometimes out of
the throes of personal crises, but always
out of intense devotion to God.
The Human Media
LESSON 4
❑
Sunday
January 21
Part 1
"And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched
MEN CALLED thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.
BY GOD Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send,
Isa. 6:7, 8 and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me."
God has always found someone to witness for Him. Not always
easily though. Noah was just about alone in his faithful witness.
Jeremiah could not find a just man in Jerusalem. Jer. 5:1-5.
What kind of person does God look for? What condition was
Isaiah in when he received the divine call? Do you think the purify-
ing process put Isaiah outside the chance of sinning?
An essential element in the prophets is their humility. You may
find it all the way from Moses to John. Ellen G. White continually
felt her unworthiness for her responsibility.
There almost seems to be a credibility gap in the minds of the
prophets. Why should anyone believe
me?
But God cleansed their
impurity, gave them courage, shored up their faith, and sent them
out to do His bidding.
What expression did Jeremiah use to designate the way he
received God's messages? Jer. 1:4, 7, 13.
Prophets received and presented their messages in a variety
of ways. Some wrote out the content of a vision. Others had no
vision but, guided by the Spirit, wrote God's message. Some
prophets wrote prose, others wrote poetry. Some preached ser-
mons or presented acted parables and recorded them.
How were the messages of the prophets given permanency?
Hab. 2:2; 1 John 1:4; Rev. 1:11.
THINK IT THROUGH
Why have certain writings been preserved and others lost? What
was different about the sayings of Nathan and Samuel that little
is recorded of them? Does the limiting of relevance to a certain
era bring doubt on the prophetic gift?
How am I relating to the prophetic gift as manifest in the last-
day church?
"We must cherish and cultivate the faith of which prophets
and apostles have testified—the faith that lays hold on the prom-
ises of God and waits for deliverance in His appointed time and
way. . . . The time of waiting may seem long, the soul may be
oppressed by discouraging circumstances, many in whom confi-
dence has been placed may fall by the way; but with the prophet
who endeavored to encourage Judah in a time of unparalleled
apostasy, let us confidently declare, 'The Lord is in His holy temple:
let all the earth keep silence before Him.'
"—Prophets and Kings,
pages 387, 388.
"The Infinite One by His Holy Spirit has shed light into the minds
and hearts of His servants. He has given dreams and visions, sym-
bols and figures; and those to whom the truth was thus revealed
have themselves embodied the thought in human language."—The
Great Controversy,
page v.
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
Introduction.
31
The Human Media
LESSON 4
❑
Thursday
January 25
Part 5
What is implied in this text as to the origin of the testimony
MEN'S of Jesus?
THREATS
TO GOD'S
GIFTS
"And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me,
Rev. 19:10 See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren
that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony
of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy."
Unless we follow the instruction already received, we cannot
expect that new revelations will come from the Spirit.
What is the situation of the remnant when they are pointed
out as possessing the prophetic gift? Rev. 12:12, 17.
Speaking of the messages the Lord had given her, Ellen G.
White said, "Time and trial have not made void the instruction
given, but through years of suffering and self-sacrifice have estab-
lished the truth of the testimony given. The instruction that was
given in the early days of the message is to be held as safe instruc-
tion to follow in these its closing
days."—Selected Messages,
Bk.
1, p. 41.
Every preacher, every teacher, every church member is to a
degree a bearer of truth and light. "There are those who will
misinterpret the messages that God has given, in accordance with
their spiritual blindness."—Selected
Messages,
Bk. 1, p. 41.
How important then that we understand what the Bible and
the spirit of prophecy are saying to God's people.
What warning did Christ have for those who live in the last
days? Matt. 24:24.
"Every variety of error will be brought out in the mysterious
working of Satan, which would, if it were possible, deceive the
very elect, and turn them from the truth."—Selected
Messages,
Bk. 2, p. 98.
THINK IT THROUGH
What different ways are there of negating the witness of
prophecy? Of making it more effective?
"When the Lord has a genuine channel of light, there are always
plenty of counterfeits. Satan will surely enter any door thrown
open for him. He will give messages of truth, mingling with the
truth ideas of his own, prepared to mislead souls, to draw the
mind to human beings and their sayings, and prevent it from hold-
ing firmly to a 'Thus saith the Lord.' In God's dealings with His
people, all is quiet; with those who trust in Him, all is calm and
unpretending. There will be simple, true, earnest believers in the
Bible, and there will be doers of the Word as well as hearers.
There will be sound, earnest, sensible waiting upon God. The
believer will hang his helpless soul on Jesus Christ."—Selected
Messages,
Bk. 2, pp, 96, 97.
FURTHER STUDY
Selected Messages,
Bk. 1, pp. 40-42.
35
The Human Media
LESSON 4
❑
Friday
January 26
Part 6
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether
MEN'S GIFTS they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out
TESTED into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit
1 John 4:1-3 that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:
and every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come
in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist,
whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now
already is it in the world."
Apparently in John's day there was a crisis in the church on
the question of the humanity of Jesus Christ. According to this
passage the basic identification of a prophet is not in his claim
to be a prophet, but in the truth of his teachings. God is not
inconsistent nor contradictory. The truthfulness of a prophet's
claims can be tested by the Bible.
Anything that diminishes the authority or efficacy of Christ's
ministry is antichrist. It is a denial that Christ is what God sent
Him to be. Our danger today is not that we shall be led astray
by a Simon or cursed by a latter-day Balaam. But we do live in
mortal peril from the worldliness and materialism of society.
Through advertising, social pressure, and education the aggres-
sive evangelists of doubt are assailing the strongholds of faith.
Why did God decree the expulsion of the Canaanites from
the Promised Land? Deut. 18:9-12.
These false voices are still speaking. Many forms of spiritualism
and astrology confront modern man. A decision to live by the
Word of God is the only safeguard against these false communica-
tions. Isa. 8:20.
What dangers threaten faith in the time of the end? 1 Tim.
4:1, 2; 2 Tim. 4:3, 4.
THINK IT THROUGH
What can arm faith against the assaults of doubt and satanic
delusions?
"In these days of peril we are not to accept everything that
men bring to us as truth. As professed teachers from God come
to us declaring that they have a message from God, it is proper
to inquire carefully, How do we know that this is truth? Jesus
has told us that 'false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many'
(Matt. 24:11). But we need not be deceived; for the Word of God
gives us a test whereby we may know what is truth. The prophet
says, 'To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according
to this word, it is because there is no light in them' (Isa. 8:20).
"From this statement it is evident that it becomes us to be dili-
gent Bible students, that we may know what is according to the
law and the testimony. We are safe in no other course of action."
—Selected Messages,
Bk. 2, p. 99.
FURTHER STUDY
The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 553-556.
36
GOD'S GOOD WORD
LESSON 5
January 28 to February 3
"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he hath anointed me to preach
the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me
to heal the brokenhearted, to preach
deliverance to the captives, and recover-
ing of sight to the blind, to set at liberty
them that are bruised, to preach the
acceptable year of the Lord." Luke 4:18,
19.
These verses, quoted by Jesus from
Isaiah, He applied to His own work. Luke
4:21. This work was, basically, com-
municating to the world.
This week's lesson will be a study of
Jesus as a communicator. "Since the sin
of our first parents there has been no
direct communication between God and
man. The Father has given the world into
the hands of Christ, that through His
mediatorial work He may redeem man and
vindicate the authority and holiness of the
law of God. All the communion between
heaven and the fallen race has been
through
Christ."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 366.
In view of Jesus' work as a com-
municator it should be eminently worth-
while in a study of communication to
examine the record about His communi-
cation. We will find that His communica-
tion was tremendously effective. What He
said and did completely changed the his-
tory and direction of society. If He failed
with some, it was because prejudice or
pride raised barriers. In the intimate,
closely fought battle for individual souls
Christ showed the complete understand-
ing of humanity that we would expect.
Ellen G. White states that when Jesus
taught the Sermon on the Mount, "He
spoke with certainty, and a convincing
power attended His words. The people
were silenced, and a feeling of fear crept
over them.... Many were convicted that
this remarkable Teacher was actuated by
the Spirit of God, and that the sentiments
He uttered were divine."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 305.
37
God's Good Word
LESSON 5
❑
Sunday
January 28
Part 1
GOOD TIDINGS
John 7:46;
6:63, 68
THINK IT THROUGH
What is the meaning of Jesus' affirmation that life is contained
in words?
"The officers answered, Never man spake like this man."
"It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing:
the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are
life."
"Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we
go? thou hest the words of eternal life."
Christ, with His heavenly Father, originated the plan of salvation,
and this was the source of His authority. He knew that the
message He was bringing would do for man exactly what He
promised. His words contained and conveyed life.
What sources of authority undergirded the witness of Jesus?
John 5:32-36, 39.
Too often modern man questions the authority of God's words
—his own surmisings seem more satisfying. Our danger is that
we might likewise doubt.
"While His teaching was simple, He spoke as one having author-
ity. This characteristic set His teaching in contrast with that of
all others. The rabbis spoke with doubt and hesitancy, as if the
Scriptures might be interpreted to mean one thing or exactly the
opposite.... But Jesus taught the Scriptures as of unquestionable
authority. Whatever His subject, it was presented with power, as
if His words could not be controverted."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 253.
As we convey the teachings of Christ, we are bearing the mes-
sage of God. See John 17:8.
At the birth of Jesus the angel told the watching, wonder-struck
shepherds that he brought tidings of great joy. We may likewise
be bearers of good news, simply by relating the messages of Christ.
Read the story of Nicodemus in John 3. How can I make the
Word more fresh and meaningful in my experience?
"Yet He was earnest, rather than vehement. He spoke as one
who had a definite purpose to fulfill. He was bringing to view
the realities of the eternal world. In every theme God was revealed.
Jesus sought to break the spell of infatuation which keeps men
absorbed in earthly things. He placed the things of this life in
their true relation, as subordinate to thoge of eternal interest;
but He did not ignore their importance. He taught that heaven
and earth are linked together, and that a knowledge of divine
truth prepares men better to perform the duties of everyday life."
—The Desire of Ages,
page 254.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pages 252-255.
38
God's Good Word
LESSON 5
❑
Monday
January
29
Part 2
CLEAR TRUTH
Matt. 13:34, 35
Why did Jesus use parables in His teaching?
"All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables;
and without a parable spake he not unto them: that it might
be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open
my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept
secret from the foundation of the world."
Christ used parables to capture and hold attention. By this
means He was able to arouse conviction in the hearts of the
hearers. "Who hath ears, let him hear." The parables were made
effective when the hearers discovered truth for themselves in these
illustrations from everyday life. Christ also used parables to
conceal the truth from some persons.
"Jesus spoke before the Pharisees and Sadducees in parables,
hiding the clearness of truth under symbols and figures because
they would make a wrong use of the truths He presented before
them; but to His disciples He spoke plainly. We should learn from
Christ's method of teaching and be careful not to cut off the
ears of the people by presenting truths which, not being fully
explained, they are in no way prepared to
receive."—Testimonies,
Vol. 3, p. 426.
Why is the gospel received in different ways by different
people? Matt. 13:13-16.
"From Christ's methods of labor we may learn many valuable
lessons. He did not follow merely one method; in various ways
He sought to gain the attention of the multitude; and then He
proclaimed to them the truths of the
gospel."—Evangelism,
page
123.
THINK IT THROUGH
Am I seeking for ways of making the gospel mean more to
myself, my family, my friends?
"His messages of mercy were varied to suit His audience. He
knew 'how to speak a word in season to him that is weary' (Isa.
50:4); for grace was poured upon His lips, that He might convey
to men in the most attractive way the treasures of truth. He had
tact to meet the prejudiced minds, and surprise them with illustra-
tions that won their attention. . . . His illustrations were taken
from the things of daily life, and although they were simple, they
had in them a wonderful depth of meaning. The birds of the air,
the lilies of the field, the seed, the shepherd and the sheep,—
with these objects Christ illustrated immortal truth; and ever after-
ward, when His hearers chanced to see these things of nature,
they recalled His words."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 254.
"As He passed through the towns and cities He was like a vital
current, diffusing life and joy."—The
Ministry of Healing,
pages
19, 20.
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages 17-22.
39
God's Good Word
LESSON 5
❑
Tuesday
January 30
Part 3
"And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her,
MOTIVATED and said unto her, Weep not. And he came and touched the
BY
bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young
COMPASSION man, I say unto thee, Arise."
Luke 7:13, 14
Note the reassuring words of Jesus. Often all that people need
to give them courage is a word. Christ had empathy with man's
needs. Often He spoke reassuring words, such as "thy sins be
forgiven thee" or "thy faith hath made thee whole." How cherished
are the words that lead men out of the pit of despair and doubt!
What combination of attitudes do you recognize in Jesus'
words in Matt. 23:37-39?
How important is the motivation for words! Jesus spoke some
words that appear severe in writing, but they were not said harshly.
"Christ Himself did not suppress one word of truth, but He spoke
it always in love. He exercised the greatest tact, and thoughtful,
kind attention in His intercourse with the people. He was never
rude, never needlessly spoke a severe word, never gave needless
pain to a sensitive soul. He did not censure human weakness.
He fearlessly denounced hypocrisy, unbelief, and iniquity, but tears
were in His voice as He uttered His scathing rebukes."—The
Desire of Ages;
page 353.
THINK IT THROUGH
What motivates me in my dealings with men? Is compassion
a major consideration?
"To love as Christ loved means to manifest unselfishness at
all times and in all places, by kind words and pleasant looks.
These cost those who give them nothing, but they leave behind
a fragrance that surrounds the soul. Their effect can never be
estimated. Not only are they a blessing to the receiver, but to
the giver; for they react upon him. Genuine love is a precious
attribute of heavenly origin, which increases in fragrance in pro-
portion as it is dispensed to others."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 5, p. 1140.
"The afflicted, suffering ones who sought Christ as their helper,
were charmed with the divine perfection, the beauty of holiness,
that shone forth in His character."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 5, p. 1111.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pages 318-320.
40
"He taught the people with patient love. His deep, searching
wisdom knew the wants of every soul among His listeners; and
when He saw them refuse the message of peace and love that
He came to give them, His heart felt anguish to the very depths."—
Gospel Workers;
page 49.
How did Jesus react on two occasions to people who desired
His ministrations? Matt. 19:13, 14; Mark 10:46-52.
God's Good Word
LESSON 5
❑
Wednesday
January 31
Part 4
"And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. Which
SINCERITY of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do
John 8:45, 46 ye not believe me?"
"Jesus appeals to the knowledge of the Jews concerning His
sinless life. He Himself had given testimony of His entire con-
formity to the Father's will (ch. 8:29). Despite all the spying of
the religious leaders, not one stain of sin had been detected.
Their silence upon this occasion confirmed His testimony."—SDA
Bible Commentary,
on John 8:46.
Christ practiced what He preached. This is the very basis of
sincerity. He had no need to gloss over His failings, for He was
sinless. This was the root of His believability.
Why did the Samaritans believe Jesus? John 4:41, 42.
"The readiness of these Samaritans to believe the evidence that
Jesus was the "Prophet" of whom Moses spoke (see on v. 26)
stands forth in sharp contrast to the uncertainty with which the
Jews received Him (see on ch. 1:10, 11). His life and message
constituted convincing evidence to the Samaritans that Moses'
prediction had met its fulfillment in the person of Jesus of
Nazareth."—SDA
Bible Commentary,
on John 4:42.
In the polyglot world of Christ's day He rang true to the peoples
of all types and races. Nothing that might be called "phony" ever
tainted His ministry.
From Paul's statement in Phil. 4:9, what would you infer about
the consistency between Paul's words and his behavior?
THINK IT THROUGH
Is there harmony between my inward sentiments, and my
words and behavior?
"Encourage in your children a truthful, honest disposition. Let
them never have occasion to doubt your sincerity and exact
truthfulness."—Spiritual
Gifts,
Vol. 2, p. 256.
"The religion of Christ is sincerity itself. Zeal for God's glory
is the motive implanted by the Holy Spirit; and only the effectual
working of the Spirit can implant this motive. Only the power
of God can banish self-seeking and hypocrisy."—The
Desire of
Ages;
page 409.
"The test of sincerity is not in words, but in deeds. Christ does
not say to any man, What say ye more than others? but, 'What
do ye more than others?' Matt. 5:47. Full of meaning are His words,
'If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.' John 13:17.
Words are of no value unless they are accompanied with approp-
riate
deeds."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 272.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pages 183-195.
41
God's Good Word
LESSON 5
❑
Thursday
February I
Part 5
"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard,
WORD OF LIFE which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon,
1 John 1:1-5 and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; ... that which
we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may
have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the
Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write
we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message
which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God
is light, and in him is no darkness at all."
The disciples regarded Christ as a message from God. As they
read Him, they discovered much about God. They found Him to
be Life, for He is the Word of Life. They found that they could
rediscover fellowship with God and maintain it with the Son. They
found that darkness dispersed before the presence of Christ.
Against this life, this light, this fellowship, they measured their
own spiritual development. They sought to convey their personal
fellowship with Christ to others, that it might transform them also.
How does God both enlarge and confine the sphere of His
saving love? John 3:16.
THINK IT THROUGH
FURTHER STUDY
42
"Christ became one flesh with us, in order that we might become
one spirit with Him. It is by virtue of this union that we are to
come forth from the grave,—not merely as a manifestation of the
power of Christ, but because, through faith, His life has become
ours. Those who see Christ in His true character, and receive
Him into the heart, have everlasting life. It is through the Spirit
that Christ dwells in us; and the Spirit of God, received into the
heart by faith, is the beginning of the life eternal."—The
Desire
of Ages,
page 388.
What kind of testimony is my life bearing? Does it show that
I am receiving the light?
"Christ came in the form of humanity to live the law of God.
He was the word of life. He came to be the gospel of salvation
to the world, and to fulfil every specification of the law. Jesus
is the word, the guidebook, which must be received and obeyed
in every particular. How necessary that this mine of truth be
explored, and the precious treasures of truth be discovered and
secured as rich jewels. The incarnation of Christ, His divinity,
His atonement, His wonderful life in heaven as our advocate, the
office of the Holy Spirit,—all these living, vital themes of Christian-
ity are revealed from Genesis to Revelation. ...
"To those who have received the false interpretation of the word,
when they search the Scriptures with the determined effort to
obtain the very marrow of truth contained in them, the Holy Spirit
opens the eyes of their understanding, and the truths of the word
are to them as a new revelation."—Fundamentals
of Christian
Education,
pages 385, 386.
Fundamentals of Christian Education,
pages 383-386.
God's Good Word
LESSON 5
❑
Friday
February 2
Part 6
The teaching of Jesus was of necessity done at a particular
ETERNALLY
point in history. He taught in specific situations, and the truths
MEANINGFUL
He spoke were appropriate to the circumstances in which He
taught. That was almost 2,000 years ago. It is reasonable to ask,
"Are His teachings relevant to the twentieth-century scene?" To
prepare a response to that question read the Sermon on the Mount,
Matthew 5 to 7, in a modern translation. When you have finished
reading it, go back and give special attention to the selections
from the sermon listed below. Has Jesus stated temporary counsel
suited to the circumstances of His day, or has He stated permanent
and universal principles? Ask yourself these questions, "Do the
principles that Jesus taught have any valid relation to modern
life? How do they apply to life today?"
"Blessed are the poor in spirit." Matthew 5:3.
"Blessed are the pure in heart." Verse 8.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your
good works." Verse 16.
"Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least command-
ments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in
the kingdom of heaven." Verse 19.
"Whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath commit-
ted adultery with her already in his heart." Verse 28.
"Resist not evil." Verse 39.
"Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to
them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use
you." Verse 44.
"Give us this day our daily bread." Matt. 6:11.
"Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Verse
21.
What do you think is meant by the statement, "Jesus Christ
the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever"? Heb. 13:8.
THINK IT THROUGH
How can I detect a drift away from making Christ's teachings
central in my life?
Could it be possible that a major reason for the failures of
modern society is that we have not leavened it with the pure
principles of heaven lived in our lives?
"Oh, that our brethren and sisters might value aright the truth!
Oh, that they might become sanctified by it! Oh, that they might
realize that upon them rests the responsibility of communicating
this truth to others! But they do not feel the importance of living
the truth, of being doers of the words of Christ. Many are self-
sufficient. They are not filled with the missionary spirit that should
animate the disciples of Christ. If they knew what it means to
have travail of soul for others, angels of God would work through
them to communicate a knowledge of the truth. They would know
the truth, and the truth would make them free.... The elevating,
purifying, ennobling principles of heaven would be introduced
into society and would work like
leaven."—Testimonies,
Vol. 8,
pp. 151, 152.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pages 298-305.
43
LESSON 6
February 4-10
CONTROL
CENTRAL
"Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth,
is come, he will guide you into all truth:
for he shall not speak of himself; but
whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he
speak: and he will shew you things to
come. He shall glorify me: for he shall
receive of mine, and shall shew it unto
you." John 16:13, 14.
"The church has long been contented
with little of the blessing of God; they have
not felt the need of reaching up to the
exalted privileges purchased for them at
infinite cost.... They are not able to pre-
sent the great and glorious truths of God's
Holy Word that would convict and convert
souls through the agency of the Holy
Spirit. The power of God awaits their
demand and
reception."—Testimonies to
Ministers,
page 175.
For the sinner, the third Person of the
Godhead, the Holy Spirit, is a convictor.
We are first led to God by the influence
of the Spirit. He chides us and guides us,
He hedges us about, until we finally face
the ultimate spiritual alternatives.
44
For the Christian, God's work of guiding
does not cease. Continuously He watches
our path, and the still small voice points
to the Way. The Holy Spirit forms a link
between man and God, convicting of sin,
impressing truth on our minds, and calling
us back home.
But there is more. Power for the Chris-
tian stems from the Holy Spirit. This power
can become increasingly available to us
by a constantly complete surrender of our
lives to God. The gifts of the Spirit, the
divine Energy, are ours if we will only seek
them. God does not want His people to
lack any good thing.
An article by Ellen G. White, "The
Promise of the Spirit," is printed at
the end of this lesson. It was origi-
nally printed in the
Review and
Herald
and is reprinted here for use
as supplementary reading with this
week's lesson.
Control Central
LESSON 6
❑
Sunday
February 4
Part 1
"Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that
INBUILT I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come
GUIDANCE unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when
SYSTEM he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteous-
John 16:7-11 ness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me;
of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me
no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is
judged."
We humans are aware of the inner voice. See Isa. 30:20, 21.
We sometimes call it conscience. A sanctified conscience leads
toward God. Is it possible for us'to have an unsanctified con-
science? Titus 1:15. The Holy Spirit uses the conscience in con-
junction with the Word as a direct way of developing moral values.
THINK IT THROUGH
In what ways did Jesus say the Spirit would guide the apostles?
John 15:26,27; 14:26. Are these promises limited to the apostles?
"Christ is represented by the Holy Spirit; and when this Spirit
is appreciated, when those controlled by the Spirit communicate
to others the energy with which they are imbued, an invisible
chord is touched which electrifies the whole. Would that we could
all understand how boundless are the divine resources... .
"Jesus says, 'Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost
is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me.' It is the
union of the Holy Spirit and the testimony of the living witness
that is to warn the world. The worker for God is the agent through
which the heavenly communication is given, and the Holy Spirit
gives divine authority to the word of truth."—Ellen G. White Com-
ments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1053.
Am I seeking the guidance of the Spirit needed for my life
through reading the Word and through prayer?
"The Spirit is given as a regenerating agency, to make effectual
the salvation wrought by the death of our Redeemer. The Spirit
is constantly seeking to draw the attention of men to the great
offering that was made on the cross of Calvary, to unfold to the
world the love of God, and to open to the convicted soul the
precious things of the Scriptures.
"Having brought conviction of sin, and presented before the
mind the standard of righteousness, the Holy Spirit withdraws
the affections from the things of this earth and fills the soul with
a desire for holiness. 'He will guide you into all truth' (John 16:13),
the Saviour declared. If men are willing to be molded, there will
be brought about a sanctification of the whole being. The Spirit
will take the things of God and stamp them on the soul. By His
power the way of life will be made so plain that none need err
therein."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages 52, 53.
FURTHER STUDY
Fundamentals of Christian Education.
pages 196-200.
45
Control Central
LESSON 6
❑
Monday
February 5
Part 2
"The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God:
SPIRITUAL for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them,
SENSORS because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual
1 Cor. 2:14-16 judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who
hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him?
But we have the mind of Christ."
"Judgeth....
The word ... conveys the idea that the spiritual
man examines, sifts, and carefully judges matters that come to
his attention. Guided by the Divine Spirit, he consequently draws
proper conclusions....
"We are, by the Spirit, united to Christ, for the Holy Spirit's
presence is the same as the presence of Jesus (see John 15:16-
19); therefore we 'have the mind of Christ' (see Phil.
2:5)."—
SDA Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 2:15, 16.
What spiritual insights are the privilege of the spiritual man?
1 Cor. 2:9-11.
All too often we fail to gain the inspiration and blessing that
should be ours simply because we do not open our minds to
the promises of God's Word, or we fail to think on the privileges
of following Christ.
What is the only source from which spiritual knowledge
comes? Verses 11, 12.
"Precious jewels of truth, that are of the highest value to the
meek and lowly ones who believe in Christ, are as foolishness
to him who is wise in the world's estimation. But truth, eternal
truth, is ever present with the true believer. The Spirit is the
appointed instructor of such a soul, his guide, his continual
strength and righteousness."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA
Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1085.
THINK IT THROUGH
How is it possible to possess deeper spiritual insight?
"As a people our faith and practice need to be energized by
the Holy Spirit. No ruling power that would compel man to obey
the dictates of the finite mind should be exercised. 'Cease ye
from man, whose breath is in his nostrils,' the Lord commands.
By turning the minds of men to lean on human wisdom, we place
a veil between God and man, so that there is not a seeing of
Him who is
invisible."—Testimonies to Ministers,
page 483.
"The experiment of the world's wisdom had been fully tested
at the advent of Christ, and the boasted human wisdom had proved
wanting. Men knew not the true wisdom that comes from the
Source of all good....
"You need to be learning in the school of Christ to-day. The
Lord has power to work with His own
agents."—Fundamentals
of Christian Education,
page 361.
FURTHER STUDY
The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 269-274.
46
Control Central
LESSON 6
❑
Tuesday
February 6
Part 3
"For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord
INPUT-OUTPUT Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth
Eph. 3:14-16 is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of
his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner
man."
"Strengthened with might.
That might that strengthens is the
power of God. The power is conveyed through the operation of
the Holy Spirit. The same power that converts men must continue
in them if there is to be Christian growth....
"In the inner man.
The Greek suggests power entering into
and remaining there. The vital spiritual powers within a man have
not sprung from his own nature; he has nothing of his own to
offer, nothing of his own of which to boast."—SDA
Bible
Commentary, on Eph. 3:16.
"God does not ask us to do in our own strength the work before
us. He has provided divine assistance for all the emergencies
to which our human resources are unequal. He gives the Holy
Spirit to help in every strait, to strengthen our hope and assurance,
to illuminate our minds and purify our hearts. . . . There is no
limit to the usefulness of the one who, putting self aside, makes
room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart and lives
a life wholly consecrated to God. . . . Christ declared that the
divine influence of the Spirit was to be with His followers unto
the end."—My
Life Today,
page 37.
Contrast the "works of the flesh" with the "fruit of the Spirit."
Gal. 5:19-25.
From one point of view the fruit of the Spirit is love, and the
other attributes mentioned in Gal. 5:22, 23 are characteristics of
love. Thus, unlike the gifts, it is impossible for us to divide the
fruit of the Spirit. It is one in our lives, lovely in all its different
facets.
THINK IT THROUGH
Can I see evidences of the fruit of the Spirit in my life?
"The influence of the Holy Spirit is the life of Christ in the soul.
We do not see Christ and speak to Him, but His Holy Spirit is
just as near us in one place as in another. It works in and through
every one who receives Christ. Those who know the indwelling
of the Spirit reveal the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, long-
suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith."—Ellen G. White Com-
ments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1112.
"The 12th and 13th chapters of 1st Corinthians should be com-
mitted to memory, written in the mind and heart. Through His
servant Paul, the Lord has placed before us these subjects for
our consideration, and those who have the privilege of being
brought together in church capacity will be united, understand-
ingly and intelligently. The figure of the members which compose
the body represents the church of God and the relation its mem-
bers should sustain to one another."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, pp. 1090, 1091.
FURTHER STUDY
The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 274-280.
47
Control Central
LESSON 6
❑
Wednesday
February 7
Part 4
"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are
COURSE
in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
CORRECTION
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me
Rom. 8:1-5
free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not
do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own
Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin
in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled
in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they
that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they
that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit."
With a Spirit-filled life we begin to live a righteous life. Righ-
teousness which was impossible before becomes reality. We set
out for the heavenly goal. Our thoughts, our actions, become
Spirit-directed.
The contrast here is between flesh and Spirit. What condemna-
tion is removed? How would you describe the law of the Spirit
of life? What precepts does it comprise? What is the law of sin
and death?
How essential is the Spirit to our walk with Christ? Rom. 8:9-11.
To be intellectually convinced is not enough. Christ must dwell
within through the Spirit. Only as our lives bear the fruit of the
Spirit do we belong to Him.
What is possible through the Spirit-filled life? Verses 14-17.
Through two-way communication between the Holy Spirit and
our hearts we receive assurance of our new status. Despite all
the difficulties of life, we know that we belong to God, that we
are His children.
THINK IT THROUGH
What does it mean to "mortify the deeds of the body"?
"When we see men firm in principle, fearless in duty, zealous
in the cause of God, yet humble and lowly, gentle and tender,
patient toward all, ready to forgive, manifesting love for souls
for whom Christ died, we do not need to inquire: Are they Chris-
tians? They give unmistakable evidence that they have been with
Jesus and learned of Him. When men reveal the opposite traits,
when they are proud, vain, frivolous, worldly-minded, avaricious,
unkind, censorious, we need not be told with whom they are
associating, who is their most intimate friend. They may not believe
in witchcraft; but, notwithstanding this, they are holding commun-
ion with an evil spirit."—Testimonies, Vol. 5, pp. 224, 225.
"The Spirit of God must do its work upon the heart. All who
have not experienced its regenerating power are chaff among
the wheat. Our Lord has His fan in His hand, and He will thoroughly
purge His
floor."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 227.
FURTHER STUDY
The Ministry of Healing,
pages 503-512.
48
Prayer—A Two-way Channel
LESSON 7
❑
Sunday
February 11
Part 1
"And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites
MAN IN are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in
PRAYER the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily
Matt 6:5-8 I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou
prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou host shut thy door,
pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth
in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not
vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall
be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto
them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of,
before ye ask him."
Note the nature of prayer revealed in this passage. First, it is
not to impress God—repetitions mean nothing. Second, it is not
to impress men. Third, God answers or "rewards" prayers. Fourth,
it is not to inform God of our needs. Finally, it is to bring us
into communication with God so that we may discover in secret
what God's will for us is.
Prayer is built on the fact of the omniscience of God. Because
He sees and knows, He can alter circumstances to affect our
destiny. We in turn may trust Him sufficiently so that our futures
are molded
by us
to conform with what God sees as our best
good. Can prayer change God's mind? Should it change ours?
How would you apply the parable of Luke 18:1-5 to prayer?
Does the judge represent God?
"How different is the attitude of God toward those who seek
Him. The appeals of the needy and distressed are considered
by Him with infinite compassion."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page
165.
What lesson should we draw from the parable? See also
1 Thess. 5:17; Rom. 12:12.
What does Paul state as the requirements for one who prays
publicly? 1 Tim. 2:8.
THINK IT THROUGH
What do I seek from prayer? my own way? God's will? the
good of others?
"Those who have decided to obey the commandments of God
will understand by experience that they have adversaries who
are controlled by a power from beneath. . . .
"In the parable of the unjust judge, Christ has shown what we
should do. . . . Christ, our example, did nothing to vindicate or
deliver Himself. He committed His case to God. So His followers
are not to accuse or condemn, or to resort to force in order to
deliver themselves."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
pages 170, 171.
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages 171-175.
54
Prayer—A Two-way Channel
LESSON 7
❑
Monday
February 12
Part 2
EXAMPLES IN
PRAYER
Dan. 9:3, 4,
20-22
"And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and
supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes: and I
prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession."
"And whiles I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my
sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplica-
tion before the Lord my God for the holy mountain of my God;
yea, whiles I was speaking in prayer, even the man Gabriel
... touched me.... And he informed me, and talked with me."
An angel bearing God's communication brought a dramatic
answer to prayer. What would you list as the requirements of
prayer from this story? How do angels fit into the task of conveying
and effecting God's will? Heb. 1:13, 14.
How did Christ evaluate the prayers of the Pharisee and the
publican? Luke 18:9-14. Was there anything basically evil about
the Pharisee's virtues as he claimed them? Then what was wrong
with the prayer? How much does a sense of unworthiness play
in fitting us for the inflow of divine power?
What characteristics marked David's great prayer of confes-
sion? Psalm 51.
When the armor of God is complete, what yet remains to be
done? Eph. 6:17, 18.
THINK IT THROUGH
How shall we recognize the communication that God has with
us as a result of prayer? What sources of communication are
open to Him and to us?
"Though Daniel had long been in the service of God, and had
been spoken of by heaven as 'greatly beloved,' yet he now
appeared before God as a sinner, urging the great need of the
people he loved. His prayer was eloquent in its simplicity, and
intensely earnest. ...
"Heaven was bending low to hear the earnest supplication of
the prophet. Even before he had finished his plea for pardon and
restoration, the mighty Gabriel again appeared to him, and called
his attention to the vision he had seen prior to the fall of Babylon
and the death of Belshazzar."—Prophets
and Kings,
pages 555,
556.
"David's repentance was sincere and deep. There was no effort
to palliate his crime. No desire to escape the judgments threatened,
inspired his prayer. But he saw the enormity of his transgression
against God; he saw the defilement of his soul; he loathed his
sin. It was not for pardon only that he prayed, but for purity of
heart."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 725.
FURTHER STUDY
Prophets and Kings,
pages 552-556.
55
Prayer—A Two-way Channel
LESSON 7
❑
Wednesday
February 14
Part 4
"Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you,
BLESSINGS IN If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which
PRAYER is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain,
Matt. 21:21, 22 Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be
done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing,
ye shall receive."
"Never is one repulsed who comes to Him with a contrite heart.
Not one sincere prayer is lost. Amid the anthems of the celestial
choir, God hears the cries of the weakest human being.... Nothing
can drown the soul's desire. It rises above the din of the street,
above the confusion of the multitude, to the heavenly courts. It
is God to whom we are speaking, and our prayer is heard."—
Christ's Object Lessons,
page 174.
What encouragement may we gain from the experience of
Judah's wicked king, Manasseh? 2 Chron. 33:9-13.
THINK IT THROUGH
From being the wickedest of kings, Manasseh repented and
endeavored to undo his evil. His example comes to us as evidence
that God desires the salvation of all men. No greater blessing
comes through prayer than salvation and forgiveness. 1 John 1:9.
For what are we encouraged to pray and with what expecta-
tion? James 5:14-16. What answer did Paul receive to his prayer
for health? 2 Cor. 12:7-10.
Make a list of the blessings you may expect through prayer.
Note especially the spiritual gain prayer should bring.
"In the future life the mysteries that here have annoyed and
disappointed us will be made plain. We shall see that our seemingly
unanswered prayers and disappointed hopes have been among
our greatest blessings."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 474.
Enumerate some examples of answered prayer. Might a Chris-
tian's loss of faith come because his expectations have not
been tuned to God's will?
"Every act of love, every word of kindness, every prayer in behalf
of the suffering and oppressed, is reported before the eternal
throne and placed on heaven's imperishable record."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 133.
"Some . . . do not see the importance of self-knowledge and
self-control. They do not watch and pray, lest they enter into temp-
tation. If they would watch, they would become acquainted with
their weak points, where they are most likely to be assailed by
temptation. With watchfulness and prayer their weakest points
can be so guarded as to become their strongest points, and they
can encounter temptation without being overcome."—
Tes-
timonies,
Vol. 2, p. 511.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pages 359-363.
57
Prayer—A Two-way Channel
LESSON 7
❑
Friday
February 16
Part 6
"Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver:
RESULTS OF in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us; ye also helping
PRAYER together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us
2 Cor. 1:10, 11
by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many
on our behalf."
Prayer produces a sense of identity with God's cause and its
progress. Through prayer we share in the deliverances of others,
we bear the burdens of those that suffer and mourn, we identify
with the triumph of good and right.
Gratitude accompanies true prayer, for the praying believer is
recognizing God as the great Source of all good and that thus
God is deserving of thanksgiving.
What experience of the disciples and others preceded Pente-
cost? Acts 1:14; 2:1, 2.
"They also met together to present their requests to the Father
in the name of Jesus. They knew that they had a Representative
in heaven, an Advocate at the throne of God. In solemn awe they
bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, 'Whatsoever ye shall
ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have
ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your
joy may be full.' John 16:23, 24. Higher and still higher they
extended the hand of faith, with the mighty argument, 'It is Christ
that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right
hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.' Romans 8:34.
"The disciples prayed with intense earnestness for a fitness
to meet men and in their daily intercourse to speak words that
would lead sinners to Christ. Putting away all differences, all desire
for the supremacy, they came close together in Christian
fellowship."
—The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 35-37.
Praying and ceasing criticism of others go together. With replac-
ing the distorted reactions of the carnal man comes a longing
to see others grow in grace. A praying church is moved toward
those in need. The members of a praying family long for each
other to experience growth in Christlikeness. This happens
because the Spirit convicts them of the needs of others.
For whom and for what purpose did Paul ask the Colossian
believers to pray? Col. 4:2-4.
Pray for the many avenues by which the gospel is preached.
Our prayers strengthen the work of God by encouraging those
responsible for its onward progress, by committing us to share
in the work, and by moving others toward commitment.
THINK IT THROUGH
Do I pray about the needs of the work of God and my fellowmen,
or only about myself?
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages 139-143.
59
The Christian's Use of Words
LESSON 8
0
Sunday
February 18
Part 1
THE POWER
OF WORDS
Prov. 18:21
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that
love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
The right words lead to eternal life. What power there is in
the use of words!
"Words are the ambassadors of the soul. Imagine a spring land-
scape without the light of the sun! So would history be without
the life and color given it by words. It was said of Luther that
his words were like battles.
"Religion, freedom, vengeance, what you will—
"A word's enough to raise mankind to kill.
"Likewise a word is enough to hold mankind back from killing
and to inspire him to noble thinking and glorious living."—C.
E. N. Macartney (ed.)
Macartney's Illustrations,
pages 412, 413.
"Closely connected with Christ's warning in regard to the sin
against the Holy Spirit is a warning against idle and evil words.
The words are an indication of that which is in the heart. 'Out
of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.' But the words
are more than an indication of character; they have power to
react on the character. Men are influenced by their own words.
Often under a momentary impulse, prompted by Satan, they give
utterance to jealousy or evil surmising, expressing that which they
do not really believe; but the expression reacts on the thoughts.
They are deceived by their words, and come to believe that true
which was spoken at Satan's instigation."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 323.
What may we expect from the good use of words? Prov. 16:24.
Divine help is needed in order that our words may always affect
in a constructive way the one with whom we speak.
What are the results of God's words? Ps. 19:7-11.
THINK IT THROUGH
If well-chosen words may affect our salvation, what of the
careless use of words? How do words reflect emotion?
"The workman for God should make earnest efforts to become
a representative of Christ, discarding all uncomely gestures and
uncouth speech. He should endeavor to use correct language.
. . . Common, cheap expressions should be replaced by sound,
pure words. By constant watchfulness and earnest discipline the
Christian youth may keep his tongue from evil and his lips from
speaking
guile."—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students,
page 238.
Words, however good, will be powerless if contradicted by
the daily l
ife."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 160.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
Vol. 4, pp. 609, 610.
61
The Christian's
Use of Words
LESSON 8
❑
Monday
February 19
Part 2
"Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour."
WORDS OF
DECEPTION
"False
speaking in any matter, every attempt or purpose to
Ex. 20:16
deceive our neighbor, is here included. An intention to deceive
is what constitutes falsehood. By a glance of the eye, a motion
of the hand, an expression of the countenance, a falsehood may
be told as effectually as by words. All intentional overstatement,
every hint or insinuation calculated to convey an erroneous or
exaggerated impression, even the statement of facts in such a
manner as to mislead, is falsehood. This precept forbids every
effort to injure our neighbor's reputation by misrepresentation
or evil surmising, by slander or tale bearing. Even the intentional
suppression of truth, by which injury may result to others, is a
violation of the ninth commandment"—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 309.
By what means did David escape, first from Saul, and then
from Achish? 1 Sam. 21:1-3, 10-15.
Is it ever right to tell a lie? Do situations make for different
standards of truth? "David told the priest that he had been sent
by the king on a secret errand, one which required the utmost
expedition. Here he manifested a want of faith in God, and his
sin resulted in causing the death of the high priest. Had the facts
been plainly stated, Ahimelech would have known what course
to pursue to preserve his life. God requires that truthfulness shall
mark His people, even in the greatest peril....
"David fled to Achish, the king of Gath; for he felt that there
was more safety in the midst of the enemies of his people than
in the dominions of Saul. But it was reported to Achish that David
was the man who had slain the Philistine champion years before;
and now he who had sought refuge with the foes of Israel found
himself in great peril. But, feigning madness, he deceived his
enemies and thus made his escape.
"The first error of David was his distrust of God at Nob, and
his second mistake was his deception before
Achish."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 656.
What effect can lies have on spiritual destinies? Rev. 22:15.
How important may lies become? 2 Thess. 2:9-12.
THINK IT THROUGH
Am I truthful in all of my communication?
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
Vol. 4, pp. 493-495.
62
The Christian's Use of Words
LESSON 8
❑
Tuesday
February
20
Part 3
"And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words
WORDS OF which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this
LIFE Joseph's son?"
Luke 4:22
Words may be used to ennoble and uplift. "Kind words are
never lost"—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1118. Christ was known for His gracious words. "Never
man spake like this man." John 7:46. "'If ye abide in Me,' He
says, 'and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and
it shall be done unto you.' It is through the word that Christ abides
in His followers. This is the same vital union that is represented
by eating His flesh and drinking His blood. The words of Christ
are spirit and life. Receiving them, you receive the life of the Vine.
You live 'by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.'
Matt. 4:4. The life of Christ in you produces the same fruits as
in Him. Living in Christ, adhering to Christ, supported by Christ,
drawing nourishment from Christ, you bear fruit after the similitude
of Christ."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 677. Our tongues, our lips,
the stream of communication that flows from us toward others,
should always raise the receiver to higher moral and spiritual
planes.
When the words of Jesus are lived out in human experience,
they cease to be merely theory and have become human personal-
ity.
How should we relate to words not in harmony with the words
of Christ? 1 Tim. 6:3, 5.
THINK IT THROUGH
"If religious teaching does not produce godly lives, it stands
self-condemned. The worth of all spiritual instruction is measured
by the degree of spiritual health enjoyed by its adherents."—SDA
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Tim. 6:3.
What role do the spoken words of believers play in conveying
words of life? How would you compare this role in value to the
written word?
"Merely to hear or to read the word is not enough. He who
desires to be profited by the Scriptures must meditate upon the
truth that has been presented to him. By earnest attention and
prayerful thought he must learn the meaning of the words of truth,
and drink deep of the spirit of the holy oracles."—Christ's
Object
Lessons,
pages 59, 60.
"The apostle realized that the gospel had a claim upon whoever
might listen to his words; that one day they would stand either
among the pure and holy around the great white throne, or with
those to whom Christ would say, 'Depart from Me, ye that work
iniquity.' Matthew 7:23. He knew that he must meet every one
of his hearers before the tribunal of heaven and must there render
an account, not only for all that he had said and done, but for
the motive and spirit of his words and deeds."—The
Acts of the
Apostles,
page 423.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
Vol. 6, pp. 441-444.
63
The Christian's Use of Words
LESSON 8
❑
Wednesday
February 21
Part 4
"Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great
SELECTING things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And
WORDS the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among
James 3:5, 6 our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on
fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell."
How may we control our tongues? We say, "My tongue slipped."
Could this be an excuse for a lack of self-control? What motivates
anyone to gossip? A desire to show that he or she is better than
the subject of the gossiping? Do you think it possible that a person
might become a gossip to try to prove his own goodness?
How does man rate in controlling his tongue? James 3:8-12.
What then is the solution? Verses 17, 18.
Jesus taught His disciples to avoid the use of common oaths,
and to say just Yes or No. Matt. 5:33-37. A Christian's word should
be his bond. A simple Yes or No carries as much weight as a
more emphatic declaration.
What effect does the wrong use of words have on a person?
Matt 15:18.
Continual thought about an action opens the way for that action
to be carried out when the opportunity comes. Many have con-
quered their habit of smoking by repeating, "I choose not to
smoke." Thus we imprint upon the mind positive and helpful
actions. Unfortunately the reverse is also true.
THINK IT THROUGH
Am I ever guilty of ,gossip or slander? What about things that
are true but hurtful of others?
FURTHER STUDY
64
The tongue "has set nation against nation, and has caused
battle and bloodshed. Words have kindled fires that have been
hard to quench. They have also brought joy and gladness to many
souls. And when words are spoken because God says, 'Speak
unto them My words,' they often cause sorrow unto repentance.
"The talent of speech carries with it great responsibility. It needs
to be carefully guarded; for it is a mighty power for evil as well
as for good."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 3, p. 1142.
"My brethren and sisters, how are you employing the gift of
speech? Have you learned so to control the tongue that it shall
ever obey the dictates of an enlightened conscience and holy
affections? Is your conversation free from levity, pride and malice,
deceit and impurity? Are you without guile before God? Words
exert a telling power. Satan will, if possible, keep the tongue active
in his service. Of ourselves we cannot control the unruly member.
Divine grace is our only
hope."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 175.
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages 335-342.
The Christian's Use of Words
LESSON 8
❑
Thursday
February 22
Part 5
"The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth
WORDS of fools poureth out foolishness."
ABOUT
"A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word
WORDS spoken in due season, how good is it!"
Prov. 15:2, 23
Consider the following contrasting qualities that words may pos-
sess:
Truth—Prov. 8:7
Deceit—Prov. 12:5
Peace—Prov. 15:1
Violence—Prov. 10:11
Deliverance—Prov. 12:6
Destruction—Prov. 10:14
Life—Prov. 18:21
Death—Prov. 18:21
Understand i ng—Prov. 1:2
Perverseness—Prov. 15:4
Wisdom—Prov. 10:13
Foolishness—Prov. 15:2
Righteousness—Prov. 8:8
Frowardness—Prov. 10:32
Some other comments about the nature of words: Rev.
21:5—Faithfulness; 1 Tim. 4:6—Doctrine; Eccl. 12:10—Accepta-
bility; Rom. 3:14—Bitterness; Jude 16—Complaining; 1 Cor.
2:4—Enticing.
"A soul filled with the love of Jesus lends to the words, the
manners, the looks, hope, courage and serenity. It reveals the
spirit of Christ. It breathes a love which will be reflected. It awakens
a desire for a better life; souls ready to faint are strengthened;
those struggling against temptation will be fortified and comforted.
The words, the expression, the manners throw out a bright ray
of sunshine, and leave behind them a clear path toward heaven,
the source of all light. Every one of us has opportunities of helping
others."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol.
3, p. 1156.
THINK IT THROUGH
Consider your own use of words in the home, to loved ones.
Am I always helpful in what I say?
"The voice and tongue are gifts from God, and if rightly used,
they are a power for God. Words mean very much. They may
express love, devotion, praise, melody to God, or hatred and
revenge. Words reveal the sentiments of the heart. They may be
a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The tongue is
a world of blessing, or a world of iniquity."—Ellen G. White Com-
ments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 3, p. 1159.
"The infinite God alone can measure the mischief that is done
by careless words.... As professed Christians, we should consider
the influence our words have upon those with whom we come
into association, whether they are believers or unbelievers. Our
words are watched, and mischief is done by thoughtless utter-
ances. No after association with believers or unbelievers will wholly
counteract the unfavorable influence of thoughtless, foolish
words. Our words evidence the manner of food upon which the
soul feeds."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 3, pp. 1159, 1160.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
Vol. 5, pp. 132-134.
65
The Christian's Use of Words
LESSON 8
❑
Friday
February 23
Part 6
ALTERNATIVES
IN
COMMUNICATION
1 Cor. 2:1, 2, 4
"And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency
of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of
God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save
Jesus Christ, and him crucified."
"And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words
of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of
power."
Paul renounced the use of oratory or brilliant debate to reach
the Corinthians. He knew he was going into a sophisticated city
where the skillful use of words would attract an audience.
"In neither private discussions nor public preaching did Paul
rely on the persuasive power found in human reasoning. He did
not seek to charm and captivate his hearers with the style of
subtile philosophy that so appealed to the Greeks."—SDA
Bible
Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 2:4.
How were Paul's words about Jesus regarded by Christians
and Non-Christians? 1 Cor. 1:21-25. (See 2:5, 6.)
"In His love and pity for lost mankind, God proclaimed the glori-
ous news of salvation through faith in Christ. This news, which
to worldly-wise individuals was mere foolishness, became, for
those who accept it, God's chosen agency for redemption....
"The 'foolishness of preaching' is the announcement of the
gospel of salvation through faith in the crucified Christ, which
to the Greek and the unbelieving Jew seemed like sheer folly."
—SDA Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 1:21.
In persecution what promise assures God's help in our com-
munication? Luke 21:12-15.
THINK IT THROUGH
How is my church going about the business of communicating
the gospel? And what about my words? Have I chosen the
heavenly alternative?
"The experience of the apostle Paul in meeting the philosophers
of Athens has a lesson for us. In presenting the gospel before
the court of the Areopagus, Paul met logic with logic, science
with science, philosophy with philosophy. The wisest of his hearers
were astonished and silenced. His words could not be con-
troverted. But the effort bore little fruit. Few were led to accept
the gospel. Henceforth Paul adopted a different manner of labor.
He avoided elaborate arguments and discussion of theories, and
in simplicity pointed men and women to Christ as the Saviour
of sinners."
—The Ministry of Healing,
page 214.
"Read the first and second chapters of 1 Corinthians with deep
interest, and pray that God will give you understanding so that
you may comprehend and put into practice the truths there
revealed."—Fundamentals of Christian Education,
page 352.
FURTHER STUDY
The Acts of the Apostles,
pages 243-247.
66
Barriers to Effective Communication
LESSON 9
❑
Sunday
February 25
Part 1
"How art thou fallen from heaven, 0 Lucifer, son of the morn-
BARRIERS TO ing! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken
GOD
the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into
Isa. 14:12-14 heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will
sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of
the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will
be like the most High."
In this reference Isaiah presents Satan as the fallen angel. ''Little
by little Lucifer came to indulge the desire for self-
exaltation."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 35.
Sin began with a perverted imagination. Lucifer imagined him-
self unfairly treated. He then arrived at wrong answers about God
and himself. Sin spread to other beings when Lucifer com-
municated to them his wrong conclusions.
Unfortunately Lucifer succeeded in communicating to Eve
thoughts of self-exaltation which she accepted. Her imagination
was thus perverted also. God had not treated her right, she
thought, in withholding the forbidden fruit. Thus sin entered the
universe and the world through perverted imagination and com-
munication. All barriers to communication that man faces evolve
from Satan's, and Eve's, false picture of God and self.
What does the psalmist say would have blocked his communi-
cation with God? Ps. 66:16-19.
By what means can our minds be redirected? John 16:7-15.
THINK IT THROUGH
Am I aware of my true nature as a sinner? Do I understand
my true potential as a child of God?
"Oh, how much we lose by not educating the imagination to
dwell upon divine things, rather than upon the earthly! ... Fresh
wonders will be revealed to the mind the more closely we apply
it to divine things. We lose much by not talking more of Jesus
and of heaven, the saints' inheritance. The more we contemplate
heavenly things, the more new delights we shall see, and the
more will our hearts be brimful of thanks to our beneficent
Creator."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1085.
"Self-esteem and self-flattery will be sure to stir up in the heart
resentment against any who venture to question one's course
of action. Everything like counsel or advice is resented with indig-
nation as a design to bruise and wound. This spirit cherished
will lead to numerous evils. None will venture to tell you when
you err, because the faithful one would be regarded as an enemy.
Thus the kindness that should exist between brethren in the faith
is killed because of the jealous interpretation put upon the God-
fearing cautions given. Undue stress is laid upon words, imagina-
tion exaggerates the matter and creates alienation."—Testimonies
to Ministers,
page 250.
FURTHER STUDY
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 52-57.
68
Barriers to Effective Communication
LESSON 9
❑
Monday
February 26
Part 2
"For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also
BARRIERS TO in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as
MAN
ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake."
1 Thess. 1:5
"Ye know.
Paul appeals to the Thessalonians' personal know-
ledge of the missionaries' behavior among them. A man must
have a clear conscience before making such an appeal to his
own conduct, but Paul never feared to quote his own behavior
among his converts. His several references to the life he lived
in Thessalonica (ch. 2:1, 2, 5, 9-11) may imply that some were
misrepresenting his behavior and endeavoring to weaken his influ-
ence. He met such misrepresentations by claiming that not only
the sermons but the lives of the evangelists preached the gospel,
and that this was done for the sake of the Thessalonians
themselves."--SDA
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Thess. 1:5.
To be effective, our communication with our fellowmen must
be in harmony with our behavior. Nothing raises barriers in a
listener faster than the feeling that he is being fooled or tricked,
or that the speaker cannot or will not do that which he admonishes
others to do.
Persons who are thus inconsistent show a similar inconsistency
in relation to God. "In taking upon themselves the solemn covenant
of the church they have pledged themselves to receive and obey
the word of God, to give themselves to God's service, but they
do not do this. In profession they claim to be sons of God, but
in life and character theydeny the relationship. Theydo not surren-
der the will to God. They are living a
lie."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 279. What barriers we sometimes erect!
What motivation should govern the Christian's communication
of truth? Eph. 4:15.
THINK IT THROUGH
How may a Christian diminish the barriers sin has erected
within his life?
"The same agencies that barred men away from Christ eighteen
hundred years ago are at work today. The spirit which built up
the partition wall between Jew and Gentile is still active. Pride
and prejudice have built strong walls of separation between differ-
ent classes of men. Christ and His mission have been misrep-
resented, and multitudes feel that they are virtually shut away
from the ministry of the gospel. But let them not feel that they
are shut away from Christ. There are no barriers which man or
Satan can erect but that faith can penetrate."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 403.
The unstudied, unconscious influence of a holy life is the most
convincing sermon that can be given in favor of Christianity. Argu-
ment, even when unanswerable, may provoke only opposition;
but a godly example has a power that it is impossible wholly
to resist."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 511.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pages 406-409.
69
Barriers to Effective Communication
LESSON 9
❑
Wednesday
February 28
Part 4
"He that received the seed into stony places, the same is
BARRIERS OF he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; yet
LIFE AND hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when
HEART tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and
CONDITIONS by he is offended. He also that received seed among the thorns
Matt 13:20-22
is he that heareth the word; and the care of• this world, and
the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh
unfruitful."
This is a parable about barriers to lasting effectiveness in com-
municating the gospel. Note the emphasis on environment—both
external and self-created. Tribulation and persecution come from
without. The desire for money and concern about the world are
personal creations. Is it possible to raise a barrier to the Word
in one's own life by committing too much time, talent, or money
to matters of secondary importance? How should we destroy
environmental barriers?
How did racial and economic disparities affect the children
of Israel? Ex 6:9. What remedy does God propose for social
and material inequalities? Isa. 58:6-8.
What human conditions may confuse our judgment of the
importance of the individual? Eccl. 9:15, 16; James 2:1-4.
God's assessment of the worth of the indiidual disregards race
and creed and economic, social, or educational status.
THINK IT THROUGH
How can I learn to communicate effectively with persons on
the other side of a social barrier?
"No mere theory of truth or profession of discipleship will save
any soul. We do not belong to Christ unless we are His wholly.
It is by halfheartedness in the Christian life that men become
feeble in purpose and changeable in desire. The effort to serve
both self and Christ makes one a stony-ground hearer, and he
will not endure when the test comes upon
him."—Christ's Object
Lessons,
page 50.
"No class is free from the temptation to worldly care. To the
poor, toil and deprivation and the fear of want bring perplexities
and burdens. To the rich come fear of loss and a multitude of
anxious
cares."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 51.
"Christ came to demolish every wall of partition, to throw open
every compartment of the temple, that every soul may have free
access to God. His love is so broad, so deep, so full, that it pene-
trates
everywhere."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 386.
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages 46-53.
71
Barriers to Effective Communication
LESSON 9
❑
Thursday
March 1
Part 5
BARRIER
OF UNBELIEF
Heb. 3:12,
13, 15
"Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart
of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one
another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hard-
ened through the deceitfulness of sin."
"While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not
your hearts, as in the provocation."
"An evil heart of unbelief.
This has ever been the root of difficulty
in the matter of man's relation to God. Thus it was with Israel
in the wilderness, and later in the land of Canaan. This same
difficulty prevents nominal Christians today from entering into
the experience of 'rest' that is possible through genuine faith
in Christ Jesus. Israel's lack of faith stands in marked contrast
with the faithfulness of Moses and Christ (vs. 1, 2). . . .
"Christians are here admonished to beware of apostatizing in
their hearts 'from the living God,' the while they maintain the
forms of religion. The experiences through which ancient Israel
passed 'happened unto them for ensamples,' or, 'as lessons'
(1 Cor. 10:11), and 'were written down for our instruction'
(RSV). Christians who, upon reviewing the obduracy of ancient
Israel, consider themselves superior, will do well to heed the admo-
nition, 'Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall'
(1 Cor. 10:12; cf. vs. 1-10)."--SDA
Bible Commentary,
on Heb.
3:12.
What was the provocation mentioned in Heb. 3:7-10? Ps.
95:7-11.
What problem may hinder spiritual growth? Heb. 5:11-14.
THINK IT THROUGH
How can one detect the signs of unbelief? What would you
suggest as a cure?
"The Lord manifests His grace and His power over and over
again, and this should teach us that it is always profitable under
all circumstances to cherish faith, to talk faith, to act faith. We
are not to have our hearts and hands weakened by allowing the
suggestions of suspicious minds to plant in our hearts the seeds
of doubt and distrust."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible
Commentary,
Vol. 7, p. 928.
"Many have for years made no advancement in knowledge and
true holiness. They are spiritual dwarfs. Instead of going forward
to perfection, they are going back to the darkness and bondage
of Egypt....
"Great privileges belong to the people of God. Great light has
been given them, that they may attain to their high calling in
Christ Jesus; yet they are not what God would have them to be
and what He designs they shall
be."—Testimonies,
Vol. 2, pp.
123, 124.
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 291-295.
72
The Family in
Dialogue
LESSON 10
❑
Tuesday
March 6
Parl 3
"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir
WORDS IN THE up anger. The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but
FAMILY the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness."
Pray. 15:1,
"A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein
2, 4
is a breach in the spirit."
"Above all things, parents should surround their children with
an atmosphere of cheerfulness, courtesy, and love. A home where
love dwells and where it finds expression in looks, in words, in
acts, is a place where angels delight to dwell.. ..
"A word of caution or reproof spoken at the right time will
be of great value... .
"There should be no loud-voiced commands, no unkind, exas-
perating words, no harsh, severe, or gloomy expressions."—
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students,
pages 115, 116.
What quality should characterize the Christian's spoken com-
munication? Col. 4:6.
Parents should communicate continually with heaven in view.
The salvation of unbroken families is their purpose. When this
motivation grips the life, then words become supremely important.
What forms of communication do we have with God that can
also be used to communicate love and respect in the family?
Ps. 95:1, 2, 6, 7.
THINK IT THROUGH
Review the words you have spoken to your loved ones in
the past day. Assess your communication—manner and con-
tent—against true Christian principles.
FURTHER STUDY
"Tell the children that you want to help them to prepare for
a holy heaven, where all is peace, where not one jarring note
is heard. Be patient with them in their trials, which may look small
to you but which are large to them.. ..
"There will be no loud, angry talking in the home. The words
will be of a character to soothe and bless the hearer. . . . Take
all the ugly features out of the voice."—The
Adventist Home,
page
436.
"Let the dear children be brought to Jesus. In simple language
speak the words of truth to them. Sing to them pleasant, attractive
songs which reveal the love of Christ. Bring your children to Jesus,
for He loves little children."—The
Adventist Home,
page 350.
"There is reason for deep solicitude on your part for your chil-
dren, who have temptations to encounter at every advance step.
It is impossible for them to avoid contact with evil associates.
... They will see sights, hear sounds, and be subjected to influences
which are demoralizing and which, unless they are thoroughly
guarded, will imperceptibly but surely corrupt the heart and deform
the character."—The
Adventist Home,
page 406.
The Adventist Home,
pages 406-418.
77
The Family in Dialogue
LESSON 10
❑
Wednesday
March 7
Part 4
"And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with
EDUCATION IN wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him."
THE FAMILY
"And it came to pass, that after three days they found him
Luke 2:40, in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing
46, 47 them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were
astonished at his understanding and answers."
"The child Jesus did not receive instruction in the synagogue
schools. His mother was His first human teacher. From her lips
and from the scrolls of the prophets, He learned of heavenly
things."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 70.
"With deep earnestness the mother of Jesus watched the unfold-
ing of His powers, and beheld the impress of perfection upon
His character. With delight she sought to encourage that bright,
receptive mind. Through the Holy Spirit she received wisdom to
co-operate with the heavenly agencies in the development of this
child, who could claim only God as His Father."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 69.
How did Hannah relate herself to Samuel after he was weaned?
1 Sam. 1:26-28. Similar words are used to describe Samuel's
growth as are used of Jesus in Luke 2:52. See 1 Sam. 2:26.
In the few short years that Hannah and Elkanah had Samuel
with them, they implanted in his mind principles of godliness and
high moral character that made him one of Israel's greatest
leaders.
What environment did Elisabeth and Zacharias choose for
John? Luke 1:39, 40.
It
was there, in the solitude of the hill country, that John heard
the voice of God.
THINK IT THROUGH
Am I building a home environment where the voice of God
is heard? Is the current reading and television viewing or radio
listening in my home such that God can communicate to my
family?
Or must I change these practices in order to let Him be heard?
"From the earliest times the faithful in Israel had given much
care to the education of the youth. The Lord had directed that
even from babyhood the children should be taught of His goodness
and His greatness, especially as revealed in His law, and shown
in the history of Israel. Song and prayer and lessons from the
Scriptures were to be adapted to the opening mind. Fathers and
mothers were to instruct their children that the law of God is
an expression of His character, and that as they received the princi-
ples of the law into the heart, the image of God was traced on
mind and soul. Much of the teaching was oral."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 69.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pages 68-74.
78
The Family in
Dialogue
LESSON 10
El Thursday
March 8
Part 5
"And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart,
RELIGION IN and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words,
THE FAMILY which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and
Deut. 6:5-7
thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt
talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou
walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou
risest up."
This sounds like conditioning children to believe in God. How
do you feel about indoctrinating children with Christian principles
and belief? Do you feel this is a good way to work? Or should
a child be left to mature and then decide for himself?
"If the mother fails in her duty to instruct, guide, and restrain,
her children will naturally accept the evil, and turn from the
good."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 572, 573.
"Family religion consists in bringing up the children in the nur-
ture and admonition of the Lord. Every one in the family is to
be nourished by the lessons of Christ, and the interest of each
soul is to be strictly guarded, in order that Satan shall not deceive
and allure away from Christ."—The
Adventist Home,
page 317.
Family worship plays a vital role in bringing the child to Christ.
Communicating Christ is not a sometime thing. Day by day, at
every opportunity, Christ must be revealed as the giver of life,
the forgiver of sins, and the source of all personal power.
What elements does Solomon recall of his childhood training?
Prov. 4:1-5.
THINK IT THROUGH
What am I doing to communicate Jesus to my family? Do I
provide literature, music, time, and opportunity that create a
climate in my home which is favorable to the discovery of Jesus?
"And it was not enough that the promised child should receive
a good legacy from the parents. This must be followed by careful
training and the formation of right habits. God directed that the
future judge [Samson] and deliverer of Israel should be trained
to strict temperance from infancy. He was to be a Nazarite from
his birth, thus being placed under a perpetual prohibition against
the use of wine or strong drink. The lessons of temperance, self-
denial, and self-control are to be taught to children even from
babyhood."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 561, 562.
"The more deeply to impress these truths upon all minds, the
great leader [
i
Moses] embodied them in sacred verse. This song
was not only istorical, but prophetic. While it recounted the won-
derful dealings of God with His people in the past, it also
foreshadowed the great events of the future, the final victory of
the faithful when Christ shall come the second time in power
and glory. The people were directed to commit to memory this
poetic history, and to teach it to their children and children's
children.... It was the duty of parents to so impress these words
upon the susceptible minds of their children that they might never
be forgotten."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
pages 467, 468.
FURTHER STUDY
The
MiniOtry
of Healing,
pages 388-394.
79
they assent to the great truths that are
present truth for these last days, and be
interested to see this message going to
other peoples and lands, while they allow
their children, their most precious posses-
sion, to go on unwarned of their danger
and unprepared for the future? Shall
those who, from the Word of God and
through the witness of his Spirit, have had
clear light concerning their duty allow the
years to pass without making definite
efforts to save their children?
Christ is waiting for the cooperation of
human agencies, that he may impress the
hearts of our children and youth. With
intense desire heavenly beings long to see
parents making that preparation which is
essential if they and their children stand
loyal to God in the coming conflict, and
enter in through the gates to the city of
God. Let parents arouse from their indif-
ference, and redeem the time. Let them
seek to correct the mistakes they have
made in the past in the management of
their children. Let those who have neg-
lected their God-given work repent of their
neglect, and in the fear of God take up
their responsibilities. As they seek to mag-
nify the law of God in the daily life, they
will make that law honorable in the eyes
of their children.—Review
and Herald,
Oct. 12, 1911.
83
The Electric Society
LESSON 11
❑
Sunday
March 11
Part 1
"Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of
THE WORLD'S these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of dis-
SOUNDS obedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were
Eph. 5:6-10 sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk
as children of light: (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness
and righteousness and truth;) proving what is acceptable unto
the Lord."
Much of the technological revolution that has produced the
electric society has been directed at communication. Beginning
with modern high-speed presses, inventive geniuses have pro-
duced telecommunications—telephone, wireless telegraphy,
radio, television, satellite relay—film, tape recorders, records, and
other communicative methods. Computers chatter to each other
about an individual's financial standing, his marital condition, how
many children he has, and so on. Never before has it been possible
for so many to know so much. The potential for conveying ideas
is limitless. But the Christian is concerned with the quality of
the communication.
What are the results of the unconsecrated life? How is this
related to the media? 2 Tim. 3:7, 13.
What circumstances resulted in the communications break-
down at the Tower of Babel? Gen. 11:4-7.
So many authorities clamor for attention, so many voices speak,
that people either tune out the messages or are frequently
deceived.
THINK IT THROUGH
List the number of communicative devices in your home; list
both according to type and the number of each type. How much
of the available information do you accept? Consider the total
number of impressions made on you through various media each
day.
"It was His purpose that as men should go forth to found nations
in different parts of the earth they should carry with them a know-
ledge of His will, that the light of truth might shine undimmed
to succeeding generations. . . . But they were unwilling to listen
to these unpalatable truths; they had no desire to retain God in
their knowledge; and by the confusion of tongues they were, in
a great measure, shut out from intercourse with those who might
have given them
light."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 120.
"Christ is ever sending messages to those who listen for His
voice.. ..
"The temptations to which we are daily exposed make prayer
a necessity. Dangers beset every path."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 509.
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 117-124.
85
The Electric Society
LESSON 11
❑
Thursday
March 15
Part 5
"And as they heard these things, he added and spake a par-
THE "NOW" able, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they
ATTITUDE thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear."
Luke 19:11
Jesus had to meet the problem of impatience with delay. In
the face of delay in setting up His kingdom He simply taught
the truth about His kingdom.
Modern technology provides fantastic techniques for accom-
plishing goals. Anything seems conquerable, given sufficient
money and men.
Yet poverty and pollution march side by side with great achieve-
ment. Dissatisfaction mounts as the possible mocks at the real.
"I want it, and I want it
now,"
is the attitude that motivates many
persons both in and beyond the so-called "now generation." It
seems entirely possible to some that technology may usher in
a temporal millennium. Yet the Christian recognizes that because
of self-centeredness a golden era is possible only through divine
intervention.
What conditions in Judah, pointed out by Jesus, are still
responsible for keeping back the fulfillment of man's hopes?
Matt. 23:37. Is the reluctance on God's part?
As television shows instant solutions through staged drama or
the recounting of history, it is easy for people to,become dis-
satisfied with their life situation. If the tube can solve it all in
an hour, why can't my life be changed as quickly? Why cannot
people get out in the streets and change things overnight?
What is the Christian to exchange for the works of darkness?
Rom. 13:12. What does this mean?
THINK IT THROUGH
Where should I take my personal problems? What attitude
would you suggest for the church toward current social prob-
lems?
"God has provided divine assistance for all the emergencies
to which our human resources are unequal. He gives the Holy
Spirit to help in every strait, to strengthen our hope and assurance,
to illuminate our minds and purify our hearts. He provides oppor-
tunities and opens channels of working. If His people are watching
the indications of His providence, and are ready to co-operate
with Him, they will see mighty results."—Prophets
and Kings,
page
660.
"Satan plays upon the human mind wherever a chance has
been left for him to do so; and he seizes upon the very time
and place where he can do the most service to himself and the
greatest injury to the cause of God. A neglect to do what we
might do, and what God requires us to do in His cause, is a sin
which cannot be palliated with excuses of circumstances or condi-
tions, for Jesus has made provision for all in every emergency."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 3, p. 505.
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages 405-416.
89
The Electric Society
LESSON 11
❑
Friday
March 16
Part 6
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as
THE a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
TARGET—YOU whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflic-
1 Peter 5:8, 9 tions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world."
Neon tubes, fluorescent billboards, bumper strips, theater mar-
quees, window displays, magazine and book covers, television
commercials, radio spots, the blimp over a ball park, sky writing
—every imaginable device becomes a tool to impress and condi-
tion you. You are the center of the advertising man's world to
be molded and shaped by words, pictures, symbols, and smells.
Then the entertainer joins forces and adds drama, comedy, and
music.
What contrast in conduct, appropriate to the early Christian
church, must be maintained between the Christian and the
Christless world today? 1 Peter 4:1-5.
"This is an age when corruption is teeming everywhere. The
lust of the eye and corrupt passions are aroused by beholding
and by reading. The heart is corrupted through the imagination.
The mind takes pleasure in contemplating scenes which awaken
the lower and baser passions."—Child
Guidance,
page 439.
What desire of Paul for the Thessalonian believers should
be our prayer in our struggle against the assaults on our senses?
1 Thess. 5:23, 24.
THINK IT THROUGH
What steps can a Christian take to protect himself from the
multiple assaults on his senses?
"Exciting love stories and impure pictures have a corrupting
influence. Novels are eagerly perused by many; and, as the result,
their imagination becomes defiled. In the cars photographs of
females in a state of nudity are frequently circulated for sale.
These disgusting pictures are also found in the daguerrean
saloons [photo shops] and are hung upon the walls of those
who deal in engravings. This is an age when corruption is teeming
everywhere."—Child
Guidance,
page 439.
"One corrupt mind can sow more evil seed in a short period
of time than many can root out in a whole lifetime."—Child
Guid-
ance,
p. 443.
"Men and women have hardly begun to understand the true
object of life. They are attracted by glitter and show. . . . Life's
best things—simplicity, honesty, truthfulness, purity, integ-
rity—cannot be bought or sold.... For everyone God has provided
pleasure that may be enjoyed by rich and poor alike—the pleasure
found in cultivating pureness of thought and unselfishness of
action, the pleasure that comes from speaking sympathizing words
and doing kindly deeds."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 198.
FURTHER STUDY
The Ministry of Healing,
pages 241-250.
90
LESSON 12
March 18-24
"The voice of him that crieth in the wil-
derness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord,
make straight in the desert a highway
for our God. Every valley shall be exalted,
and every mountain and hill shall be
made low: and the crooked shall be made
straight, and the rough places plain: and
the glory of the Lord shall be revealed,
and all flesh shall see it together: for the
mouth of the Lord hath spoken it." Isa.
40:3-5.
"What is our work? The same as that
given to John the Baptist, of whom we
read: 'In those days came John the Bap-
tist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea,
and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom
of heaven is at hand. For this is he that
was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, say-
ing, The voice of one crying in the wilder-
ness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make
His paths straight.' Matthew 3:1-3.
"All who are truly engaged in the work
of the Lord for these last days will have
a decided message to bear. Read the
first few verses of the fortieth chapter of
Isaiah....
"This chapter is filled with instruction
appropriate for us at this time. The word
of the Lord to us is: 'Repent ye; prepare
the way for a revival of My work.'
"—
Testimonies,
Vol. 8, pp. 9, 10.
A global task continues to confront the
church. All flesh must see the salvation
of God. Many barriers compound the
already difficult task of reaching all men
with the good news about Jesus Christ.
Some of these barriers are: (1) population
growth, (2) political "curtains," (3) reli-
gious and racial prejudices, (4) remote-
ness, (5) ignorance and illiteracy, (6) cul-
tural patterns, and (7) indifference.
Radio and television are shrinking the
world to the dimensions of a village. Vast
distances may separate the abodes of its
inhabitants, but as in a village, we some-
times hear the talk of distant dwellers as
readily as two ladies may talk over a back-
yard fence. Marshel McLuhan, famed
Canadian communications philosopher,
coined the phrase "global village" to
describe the shrinking effect the media
are having on the world.
This means that we have unrivaled
opportunities for reaching all men
everywhere with the three angels' mes-
sages. It also means that the church is
subject as never before to the inquisitive
stare of others in the "global village."
91
Worldwide Witness
LESSON 12
❑
Monday
March 19
Part 2
"And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having
THE MESSAGE the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the
Rev. 14:6, 7 earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for
the hour of his Judgment is come: and worship him that made
heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters."
Remind yourself again of the relevancy of this message. It is
borne by an angel with power to circle the globe—"in the midst
of heaven." He carries a timeless message of good news to all
people. His voice is amplified to reach all men.
A call comes to return to worship of God in an age when men
give glory to science, knowledge, material possessions, sport,
entertainment, and anything but God. A warning comes of the
ultimate results of neglecting relationships with God. Judgment
is upon us.
In an age when many want to do their "own thing," the message
reflects the objective standards of the Creator. Mankind's pride
stands rebuked.
What spiritual climate affects the worldwide message? Rev.
14:8-11.
What will be the three characteristics of the saints of the last
days? Rev. 14:12.
"This is where the fortitude of God's people has its place—in
keeping God's commands and remaining loyal to Jesus." Rev.
14:12, NEB.
THINK IT THROUGH
Does my conduct carry the message of the importance of
obeying God?
"The prophecies of Daniel and of John are to be understood.
They interpret each other. They give to the world truths which
every one should understand. These prophecies are to be wit-
nesses in the world. By their fulfillment in these last days they
will explain themselves.
"The Lord is about to punish the world for its iniquity. He is
about to punish religious bodies for their rejection of the light
and truth which has been given them. The great message, combin-
ing the first, second, and third angels' messages, is to
-
be'given
to the world. This is to be the burden of our work. Those who
truly believe in Christ will openly conform to the law of Jehovah.
The Sabbath is the sign between God and His people; and we
are to make visible our conformity to the law of God by observing
the Sabbath. It is to be the mark of distinction between God's
chosen people and the world."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA
Bible Commentary,
Vol. 7, p. 949.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
Vol. 6, pp. 14-22.
93
Worldwide Witness
LESSON 12
❑
Tuesday
March 20
Part 3
Men like Marconi and Baird, who transmitted the first radio
THE GIFT OF
and television signals respectively, shine with fame. Gutenberg's
TECHNOLOGY
invention of movable type marks him for timeless honor. But back
of men's inventive genius is God enlightening their minds. Where
is His honor?
What mission of the church does the invention of methods
of mass communication meet? Matt. 24:14. Why is it significant
that the communications explosion has occurred in the past
fifty years?
The fact that Satan degrades an instrument of communication
does not mean that it came of the devil. "God intrusts men with
talents and inventive genius, in order that His great work in our
world may be accomplished."—Fundamentals
of Christian
Education,
page 409.
How did the prophets and apostles make use of the limited
technology of their day? Hab. 2:2; Heb. 13:22; 1 John 5:13.
THINK IT THROUGH
Am I supporting, in every way I can, the work of God which
is carried on through literature, radio, telephone, and television?
"The knowledge current in the world may be acquired; for all
men are God's property, and are worked by God to fulfill His
will in certain lines, even when they refuse the man Christ Jesus
as their Saviour. The way in which God uses men is not always
discerned, but He does use them. . . . The inventions of human
minds are supposed to spring from humanity, but God is behind
all. He has caused that the means of rapid traveling shall have
been invented, for the great day of His preparation."—Fundamen-
fats of Christian Education,
page 409.
"When men do not make God first and last and best in everything,
when they do not give themselves to Him for the carrying out
of His purposes, Satan comes in, and uses in his service the minds
that, given to God, could achieve great good. Under his direction,
they do an evil work with great and masterly power. God designed
them to work on a high plane of action, to enter into His mind,
and thus to acquire an education that would enable them to work
the works of righteousness."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA
Bible Commentary,
Vol. 4, p. 1174.
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages 328-335.
94
Worldwide Witness
LESSON 12
❑
Wednesday
March 21
Part 4
"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not
THE
believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have
BEAUTIFUL not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and
FEET how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written,
Rom. 10:14, 15 How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of
peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"
In Romans 10 Paul considers the question of why Israel failed
to arrive at righteousness by faith. Who or what was to blame?
He concludes that it was not because they did not hear or under-
stand the gospel. It was because they were rebellious. Verse 21.
In the process of his argument he states some principles that
are applicable to the work of the gospel in any age. No one calls
on God unless he believes. No one believes unless he hears. No
one hears without a preacher. No one preaches without a commis-
sion. This week's lesson began with a study of the commission
Jesus has given to believers to teach the gospel worldwide. The
modern believer has a number of means to send out the Word—
printed materials, radio, telephone, television, films, and tapes.
While these inventions are helpful, the consecrated believer under
the Spirit's power will always be the prime means of witness.
All electronic and mechanical communications devices are merely
extensions of the living believer.
What symbols were presented to John to represent the inten- -
sity with which the last message would be given to the world?
Rev. 18:1, 2.
What indicates the divine origin of the message? Rev. 18:1.
THINK IT THROUGH
Have I committed myself through time, talent, and means to
the global task of the church?
"Thus the message of the third angel will be proclaimed. As
the time comes for it to be given with greatest power, the Lord
will work through humble instruments, leading the minds of those
who consecrate themselves to His service."—The
Great
Controversy,
page 606.
"The prophecies in the eighteenth of Revelation will soon be
fulfilled. During the proclamation of the third angel's message,
'another angel' is to 'come down from heayen, having great power,'
and the earth is to be 'lightened with his glory.' The Spirit of
the Lord will so graciously bless consecrated human instrumen-
talities that men, women, and children will open their lips in praise
and thanksgiving, filling the earth with the knowledge of God,
and with His unsurpassed glory, as the waters cover the sea.
"Those who have held the beginning of their confidence firm
unto the end will be wide awake during the time that the third
angel's message is proclaimed with great power."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 7, p. 984.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
Vol. 8, pp. 14-23.
95
Worldwide Witness
LESSON 12
❑
Thursday
March 22
Part 5
"Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ,
THE CHURCH and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required
A SPECTACLE in stewards, that a man be found faithful."
1 Car. 4:1,
"For we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels,
2, 9 and to men."
It
was the apostles that Paul considered to be a "spectacle
to the world," but it is also true of every person who believes
in Jesus Christ.
The media have power to create images favorable and unfavor-
able. An event or a person can achieve prominence or notoriety
in a matter of hours. We may feel that what happens in our homes,
our churches, our schools, our constituencies is our business.
But it may rapidly become more than just the business of the
community; it may concern a whole nation or even the world.
We cannot avoid the penetrating eye of the news or television
camera, or escape the skilled pen of the news writer, or the
authoritative voice of the newscaster. The potential of exposure
always exists.
What will be exposed? The
good
deeds of the church? Or some
misdemeanor? No longer is it possible for us to show one face
to the public, another to our communion. Only in Christian consis-
tency and the highest possible principle can we be secure under
the scrutiny of the world.
As with Judah, what reputation should the church of God have?
Isa. 62:12.
What influence did one good man, Barnabas, have on a com-
munity? Acts 11:22-24.
THINK IT THROUGH
Is there anything in my life that would bring disgrace on the
church or my family? Whose example have I taken for my life?
"Multitudes in the world are witnessing this game of life, the
Christian warfare. And this is not all. The Monarch of the universe
and the myriads of heavenly angtls are spectators of this race;
they are anxiously watching to see who will be successful over-
corners and win the crown of glory that fadeth not away."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 34.
"Where is the self-denial, where is the cross-bearing that Christ
has said should characterize His followers? The reason we have
had so little influence upon unbelieving relatives and associates
is that we have manifested little decided difference in our practices
from those of the world. . . . When we reach the standard that
the Lord would have us reach, worldlings will regard Seventh-day
Adventists as odd, singular, strait-laced extremists. 'We are made
a spectacle unto the world, and to angles, and to men.'
"—Funda-
mentals of Christian Education,
page 289.
FURTHER STUDY
Messages to Young People,
pages 200-212.
96
LESSON 13
March 25-31
LIVING
COMMUNICATION
"I am crucified with Christ: neverthe-
less I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in
me: and the life which I now live in the
flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God,
who loved me, and gave himself for me."
Gal. 2:20.
"We can say that all human communica-
tion has some
source,
some person or
group of persons with a purpose, a reason
for engaging in communication. Given a
source, with ideas, needs, intentions,
information, and a purpose for com-
municating, a second ingredient is neces-
sary. The purpose of the source has to
be expressed in the form of a
message."
—David K. Berlo,
The Process of
Communication,
page 30.
Experts in the theory of communication
add to the source and the message, the
encoding
of the message. For example,
a message is
put
into words and is accom-
panied by gestures and body movements.
Then there is the
channel,
the means by
which the message is carried from the
source to the
receiver,
which completes
the communication process.
We may readily see how the Christian
message fits into this structure. A limitless
number of receivers wait to hear our mes-
sage. They are the billions without saving
truth. Multiple channels are available in
the form of literature, radio, television, and
the live witness.
We have no question about the source
of our message. Nor do we doubt the mes-
sage itself. In this lesson we will look at
transferring the message from paper and
print, as found in the Bible, into our lives
where it will become human personality.
We must come so close to Christ that His
life and message will be accurately trans-
ferred to us, that we in turn may translate
it in a way that will be true to the Source,
and yet adapted to the receivers.
An article entitled "Our Duty to
Communicate Truth" by Ellen G.
White, follows this lesson. It is to
be read as supplementary reading
in connection with this week's les-
son. It was originally printed in the
Review and Herald.